Tips to keep things under control in uncertain times

Q: Over the last few months I have felt a lack of control in some areas of my life. Not being sure what will happen to my company is causing me a lot of stress and unease. It is hard to concentrate and be productive not knowing what’s coming next. Any suggestions? (BC, email). A: […]

The power of introverts

Q: I’m a young professional. I would describe myself as an introvert.  My reserved nature seems to clash with the apparently mandatory skill of ‘excellent communication skills’ that I so often see in job specs. I feel I am at a disadvantage when compared to more outgoing people. Any advice will help.  (BC, email). A: […]

Standing out from the crowd

Q: I am on the look-out for a new job. I got a good education in my sector and have gained good experience in my field, but when I start looking around now, I am certain to be competing with other candidates with similar experience and qualifications. That is a worry as I am not […]

How to keep yourself motivated during tricky times

Q: I am in a good job that pays the bills. I have a good working environment despite the COVID-19 circumstances, and I would like to progress in my career. The problem is that I just can’t push myself to learn anything new or start a new project. I can’t find the motivation. Can you […]

Lost my job, now what?

Q: I have been in work for 24 years. I had a stable job, and no desire to change. Due to COVID-19 and other issues, the company has offered me a redundancy next month. It’s hard not to take this personally and it is affecting my confidence. I am not sure where to start or […]

How to seek out jobs in the hidden market

Q: I have scoured the internet for a job. Anything I see, I’m onto it. However, I am not getting much feedback and am becoming frustrated. How can I be more effective in my search? (CP, email). A: The keyword here is ‘effective’. Applying for online positions is just one way of using your time, […]

Ten tips for virtual recruitment fairs

Q: I have just signed up for a virtual recruitment fair. I don’t really know how it works, what to expect or how to prepare. Any guidance would be most welcome as I want to make the most of it? (BC, email). A: Virtual fairs have been around for quite a while, most notably targeting […]

Market trends in the jobs market after COVID-19

Q: I am 22. I did a business degree and was working for eight months in ‘holding job’ when COVID-19 struck. I was laid off and won’t be getting back. Those who were there longer than me got back and I fear that the future will see a bias in favour of experienced candidates. I’m […]

Remember, it takes two to tango

The bloodied boxer stumbled back to his corner at the end of the round and muttered that “I was doing grand until he hit me”. Job interviews might feel that way too: like the mice and the men, you can lay your plans quite brilliantly, only for an interviewer to throw you off with the […]

Time management – finding balance, productivity and health

Q: I’m having a tough time finding the right balance in my days during COVID-19, when I’m working from home. I seem to be constantly worried that I am not getting enough done, not to mention not getting enough of the right stuff done. I thought my time management skills were good, but I’ve lost […]