by Angela Copeland | May 8, 2015 | Advice, Media
My latest Memphis Daily News column is out, “What to Do After a Big Raise.”
As today’s professionals are learning, the fastest way to get a big raise is to switch jobs. Often, staying at the same job will put an additional 2 to 3 percent in your pocket each year. That’s not enough to keep up with the rising costs of rent, food or much of anything.
Picture this. You’ve been working for years to get a promotion. Finally, you land it! You get much more money, an impressive title, a better office and maybe even more vacation. It’s an incredibly exciting time in your life. What should you do now?
This is a tough question that comes up every day and deserves a closer look. Because of the difficulty involved in earning more money, we often feel entitled to do something with it – something fun, something big.
A few very common choices are: buy a new car, move to a bigger house in a nicer neighborhood, schedule a lavish vacation or purchase gifts for your loved ones. After all, you’ve earned it. It’s your money. You deserve it, right?
Technically, the answer is yes. But, you may want to think again. Read my entire Memphis Daily News column here for finance-saving alternatives.
by Angela Copeland | May 1, 2015 | Advice, Media
My latest Memphis Daily News column is out, “We’re All in Sales.”
Lately, I’ve heard the phrase, “we’re all in sales” a few too many times. This thought can be a strange one to grasp when you think about it. For example, how could you ever be considered to be “in sales” if you work in the accounting, operations or legal department?
Changes are that when you started your career, you were open to many more options than you are today. After all, you had no particular experience yet and just wanted to get your feet wet. You’d take any job that was related to what you studied, just as long as it would pay the bills.
As time goes on however, your needs become more specific. You may become set on a particular industry, department or role within the organization. As such, the number of total opportunities available shrinks considerably. In turn, the career competition within a certain category can increase.
Rather than distribute your resume as if your computer was a firehose, it’s time to become more targeted.
To learn exactly what you should do to be more targeted, read my entire Memphis Daily News column here.
by Angela Copeland | Apr 24, 2015 | Advice, Media
My latest Memphis Daily News column is out, “Small-Business Bonus.” In it, I discuss the advantages to working for a small-sized business — to both your career and your personal life.
For most of my career, I’ve worked for big businesses. In fact, some of the biggest. I was fortunate that my very first job was for auto giant General Motors, and along the way, I also spent time at FedEx and Westinghouse, to name a few.
There are many advantages to working for such large firms. You often receive a higher salary, and top-notch health care benefits. Your workplace comes with perks like an onsite gym, continuing education curriculum, and possibly even a free lunch.
But, as you can guess, that free lunch comes with a price. Sometimes that price is your personal identity, and professional growth.
To read all the reasons a small business can help you now, and in your future career, check out my entire Memphis Daily News column here.
by Angela Copeland | Apr 17, 2015 | Advice, Media
My latest Memphis Daily News column is out, “The Power of the Follow-Up.”
As I reflect back on the past week, I’m reminded of the Multicultural Career Expo. Nearly 1,400 job seekers had the opportunity to connect with more than 50 employers.
Before the event, many people asked me what to do during the event. Oftentimes though, the most important work comes later. Whether you’re attending a job fair, interviewing for a job or networking, the rules are the same.
To prepare, you’ll need your own business cards. Even if you’re currently unemployed, there are many websites where you can order simple cards. You’ll want to include at least your name, phone number and e-mail address.
Keep your business cards with you everywhere: in your wallet, your bag, your desk and your car. The worst thing is to meet a great contact and then have to apologize for not having a card. Even worse is missing out on getting their contact information.
To find out what to do next, and learn all my follow up tips, check out my entire Memphis Daily News column here.
by Angela Copeland | Apr 10, 2015 | Advice, Media
My latest Memphis Daily News column is out, “Updating Your Strategy.” In it, I discuss the importance of bringing your job search up to speed with the times.
When it comes to job searching, one thing’s for sure. Times have changed. Over the past 20 years, the process for getting a job has been transformed. Most companies require you to apply online, and some even interview you via video chat.
This process can be one of the most maddening things job seekers experience, especially if they haven’t looked for a job for many years. It can be both discouraging and disheartening. I empathize that this process has become increasingly difficult and often inefficient.
Since you can’t change the process, what can you do to influence your results? The best place to start is by updating your strategy.
To get all my tips on updating your strategy, read my entire Memphis Daily News column here.
by Angela Copeland | Apr 3, 2015 | Advice, Media
My latest Memphis Daily News column is out today, “Business Means Business.”
Over the past 30 years, one thing is for sure. Business has changed. In fact, the change has been so dramatic that it’s become somewhat of a generational issue.
Whereas past generations diligently worked at a job for 20-plus years until retirement, today’s workforce would often be foolish if they tried this approach. Changing positions every three to five years has become a natural and necessary part of career progression. It’s how many workers diversify their experience, get promotions and increase their salaries. This movement also provides long-term stability.
Read my entire column for what’s changed, and what you can do about it –> http://bit.ly/1DFbTjZ
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