My Great Global Adventure Goodbye Hong Kong, Hello Moscow

My Great Global Adventure Goodbye Hong Kong, Hello Moscow This article is  sponsored  by AXA, a multinational insurance firm. Will Moore is the first winner of the Great Global Adventure by AXA, a competition that offers a world-first prize â€" an all-expenses paid travelling experience, that includes two top internships with international AXA teams, a volunteering opportunity, and the chance to tick off his bucket list. Has he been making the most of this once in a lifetime opportunity? We caught up with Will about his adventure so far to find out. My last three months have been incredible. I’ve travelled through China, completed my first internship in the AXA Investment Manager’s Hong Kong office, and crossed all the way from Beijing to St. Petersburg on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Pandas to pagodas and an internship invested in me: Visiting China was a great experience and I really enjoyed learning about its rich history and culture. Some of my highlights were: camping on the Great Wall of China in Beijing, seeing Giant Pandas in Chengdu, visiting the Shaolin Temple the birthplace of Kung Fu and viewing “the eighth wonder of the world”, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an. View this post on Instagram Tucked away behind tower blocks lies the peaceful Wong Tai Sin Temples Good Wish Garden, a miniature replica of the famous Summer Palace in Beijing. Exploring these peaceful gardens was like stepping back in time. ??? #goodwishgarden #wongtaisin #temple #garden #turtle #nature #summerpalace #kowloon #contrast #history #culture #hongkong #hkig #axaadventure A post shared by Chelsie Kumar (@greatglobaladventurer) on Jan 27, 2016 at 7:52pm PST Back in Hong Kong, I began my five week internship in the Sales and Marketing team of AXA Investment Managers. The warmth of the welcome, professionalism and great open atmosphere in the office really enriched my internship. I was grateful for the opportunity to work with different teams, to challenge and develop myself and I now have a broad overview of the multifaceted nature of the business. It was a team atmosphere that encouraged an inquisitive mind and everyone gave their guidance and time to help my development. Crossing continents on the Trans-Siberian Railway: The Trans-Siberian Railway was an epic journey. I travelled 9,000km through three different countries and got to explore remote villages and vibrant cities. When I reached Mongolia the -35 degree cold was bone chilling. A highlight was living in a Mongolian Ger Camp, which was surrounded by majestic snow covered mountains and the bluest sky I’ve ever seen. After Mongolia I travelled on to Russia. I spoke Russian the whole time I was there and it was a real joy to use the language again. I visited the beautiful Lake Baikal and tried out some Siberian husky sledding in Irkutsk. It took three and a half days to finally reach Moscow from Irkutsk and the views from the train were beautiful and always varied. I was grateful for the warm welcome that I received from the Russians I met and I look forward to exploring the country again in the future. View this post on Instagram Two thumbs up from Red Square! Its great to be back in Moscow. ???????????? #redsquare #stbasilscathedral #moscow #russia #motherland #?????? #?????? #travel #cathedral #axaadventure A post shared by Chelsie Kumar (@greatglobaladventurer) on Dec 8, 2015 at 12:46am PST The benefits of being bilingual I’ve used Russian as often as possible. For instance, when drinking traditional milk tea with a Mongolian nomad called Namjilmaa in her Ger Camp, it was the common language between us to get to know each other. I also became friends with young Russian soldiers on the train and we swapped our flip flops as a token of our friendship. I would always recommend making an effort to speak the language of the country you’re in. Even if it’s just basic phrases such as “hello” and “thank you”, if you have the confidence to be a communicator you will find that it will break down boundaries and bring you great rewards. Even if it’s completely wrong, the effort will not go unnoticed. It’s worth it for the smile! What’s next for me? I’m kicking off 2016 with my charity project in Jakarta, working with Junior Achievement to teach local students about finance and entrepreneurship. Then I’m off to Bali, Australia, New Zealand and South America. My year of adventure will be wrapped up in San Francisco, after I’ve completed the second of my internships with AXA Lab. Keep updated with Will’s Great Global Adventure by AXA on Instagram, and on DiscoverAXA’s Facebook and Twitter pages. Where would your Great Global Adventure take you? Pre-register for the competition at www.greatglobaladventure.com and be the first to play for the adventure of a lifetime.

Job hunt tips Ive collected

Job hunt tips Ive collected I am always coming across new ideas for being more effective when you look for a job. Here are some Ive collected: 1. Dont answer the phone when it wakes you up. I know people get giddy for interview call backs like they get giddy for good-date callbacks. But the combination of giddy for phone calls, and sleeping late because youre unemployed could be lethal. Time magazine reports that the morning haze you experience when the alarm clock goes off is known as sleep inertia, and it clouds your brain more than sleep deprivation. The impairment is most severe in the first ten minutes but can linger for up to two hours. Bottom line: Let the call go to voicemail and go get some coffee. 2. Edit a wikipedia entry to show youre an expert. Writing a blog on a given topic is great for your career. It shows that you specialize and you know youre stuff. But a blog is a big time investment. I got the idea of taking charge of a wikipedia entry from reading this blog post. It seemed totally natural to this woman to contribute to wikipedia in an area she was becoming knowledgeable in. We should all think this way. In general, editing wikipedia is not rocket science. It shows that we are good at working in a team (which is what a wikipedia entry is), and that we have expertise. 3. Handle hard interview questions with a positive bent. Most times people ask trick questions, the person is looking for you to go negative, says Cynthia Shapiro, former human resource executive and author of Corporate Confidential. An example of one of these questions is, Tell me about a difficult boss and how you got around it. The impact of being positive in an interview, and in life, cannot be overestimated. Optimistic people are happier and more fulfilled than the not-so-optimistic. 4. Dont provide two email addresses. Why do I see so many resumes with multiple email addresses? If you cant make up your mind which email address is best, then how will you make decisions for anything once youre hired? Providing two email addresses is not being thorough. Its being annoying. Know the difference. 5. Make your resume a tease. I write all the time about how a resume is a marketing document and not a list of your achievements or (worse yet) your job duties. But David Perry, author of the Guerilla Marketing for Job Hunters, takes that one step further and says a resume should be a tease. You dont want to tell absolutely everything. You want to tell someone enough to get them to call you to ask for more. 6. Pitch your cover letter from the right angle. A reader, Harry Hollenberg, wrote in with this tip: Dont spend your cover letter telling me why my firm is perfect for you. Tell me why youre perfect for our firm. 7. Turn your job hunt into a publicity campaign. This is actually something to do before you need the job. Debra Feldman, Job Whiz (and Coachology veteran) writes: Try Googling yourself. If you cant find anything that promotes you as an expert in your field, take steps to establish a web presence so recruiters and colleagues can find you and learn about your strengths. You can do this and control the content by establishing your own professional website (not family trips) and including information detailing your achievements, links to other references, white papers, articles, presentations at industry conferences and keynote speeches, internal training youve developed or delivered, PowerPoint presentations of general interest. The idea, writes Feldman, is to let yourself be found by recruiters and others who are looking for certain skills or qualifications. This tends to make you a more interesting and attractive potential candidate than if you submit a resume or write to introduce yourself. Think how you feel when you unearth a gem.

How are you living your dash Career Coach JobJenny

How are you living your dash Career Coach JobJenny Needing a little inspirational downtime, I grabbed an unread book off the bookshelf over the weekend. The book, One Month to Live: Thirty Days to a No Regrets Lifeby Kerry ChrisShook, was a gift from a friend from a couple of years back.The premise of it (duh)is how differently we'd all live our lives if we knew we had just 30 days left. And, if you read the entire book, it presents a 30-day challenge to readers on how to do just this (with the presumed added benefit that you don't actually kick it after those 30 days.)I had limited time, so I've not jumped into the day-to-day challenge part of this book, but I read something in the first chapter that I love love love love. And it's so relevant to anyone frustrated by unemployment, a slow-moving job search, or, hell, life in general, that I must share...Live the dash.None of us gets to pick when we're born or when we'll die. We all have a birthdate, and we will all have a date of death. Could be 40 years from now, or 10, or, frankly ? A week from tomorrow. We just don't know and, by and large, don't get to pick.When it's all said and done, however, our birth year and date of death will be etched on some fancy headstone. Separated by only a dash.The dash? That little line will represent all that went down in our entire life span. And how we live that dash?Is entirely within our control.Even when life feels out of our control? Even when if feels as though all of the crap cards are being dealt our way?We always have an element of control over how our lives will unfold.We always control how we live the dash.So how are you living your dash? And how can you make the dash more fulfilling, happier, and more worthwhile?Something to consider today.Photo credit: carolyndavidsonhicks.com

Your DISC Assessment Is All Wrong (Or Is It)

Your DISC Assessment Is All Wrong (Or Is It) Its not uncommon to read through the results of your DISC assessment and disagree with some of it. But that doesnt mean your report isnt accurate. Our coaches here at Balanced WorkLife have a bit of experience with folks who want to argue over the content of their DISC reports. And I was one of them. My coachs advice? Show it to your best friend, your mom, your significant other. Basically, someone who knows you well and will tell you the truth. My coach then told the story of a client who read the first few pages of her report and literally tossed it aside in a huff. Her fiancé asked her what the problem was and she replied, This DISC thing got me all wrong. So he looked through the report and ended up laughing out loud. In his opinion, the assessment was spot-on. Seems that we dont always see ourselves the way others see us. And just one of the many things that DISC does is to help us see ourselves as others see us. This is valuable stuff, even when some of  the results are not what you want to hear. Not What I Wanted To Hear Learning that others may see me as nondemonstrative, hesitant, or unconcerned was a shocker. And when Im under pressure? Well, during those times, Im perceived as possessive, detached, stubborn, and insensitive. What?! Im Not Inflexible. Am I? But after a bit of reflection (because, as my DISC will tell you, Im big on reflection) I began having flashbacks to times in my life where I displayed behavior that could label me as stubborn, inflexible, or overly-cautious. Not only did I realize that there were times that others likely viewed me in the not-so-complimentary ways listed above, but I also saw how their judgments affected our future interactions. Just a few of the examples that flashed through my mind: A former boss asking for immediate feedback on a new idea. I stared at him, my cautious, calculating nature considering the impact on operations while I tried to stammer out an organized response. When I failed to rave with excitement, he decided I was uninterested. A few more such interactions, and he stopped coming to me with his ideas. My long-ago announcement to my husband that if he wanted to go to the movies with me that night, Id need to know by noon so I could prepare.   While he now understands that Im thrown off by spontaneity and does his best to fulfill my request for prior planning sometimes hell announce, Im going to the movies in an hour. And off he goes. The time I alarmed a group of software engineers during a meeting on implementation details. They realized mid-stream that making a high-level change would fix one problem we were having, but they were oblivious to the problem it would create on my side of the fence. Faced with this unexpected change, I freaked out and resisted their proposal with everything I had, displaying possessiveness and stubbornness that defied logic. They requested a different Program Manager for their next project. Sometimes self-awareness really stinks. Going back through these experiences felt like my very own episode of This Is Your Life. But without the contrived tears. So Now What? The benefit of going through this process is that insights from your past can guide you in the present. As a result, I now make an effort to express myself more openly, or maybe say Ill need to think about that a bit when feeling pressed for an opinion, or to notice that Im resisting change solely because Im averse to change. So, in the event that youve disagreed with portions of your DISC assessment, give it another go. Take another look or share it with a friend. A really good friend. One who wont upset you when they laugh out loud. Image courtesy of  Ashley  Sturgis.

How Freelancers Can Get Consistent Cashflow With The Replenishing Retainer - CareerMetis.com

How Freelancers Can Get Consistent Cashflow With The Replenishing Retainer Photo Credit â€" Pixabay.comGetting paid is the number one concern I hear from freelancers. And, either you deal with this issue up front in yourcontracts, or later when you deliver the work product and your client doesn’t pay on time, or at all.Wouldn’t it be great if there was a system to ensure that you get paid consistently so that you aren’t chasing clients for money? Well, there is and it’s simple. It’s called the Replenishing Retainer.You’ve probably heard of legal retainers. But freelancers can use them too.evalIn a nutshell, a retainer is a sum of money that your client pays upfront, and before you begin any work. It can be a fixed amount for the contracted work, or your hourly rate is billed against the retainer.This type of “traditional” retainer helps you get paid. The Replenishing Retainer does too, but it also ensures consistent cash flow.Here’s how it worksevalFor hourly rate clients, your contract will contain a provision that requires the client to pay to you a specific sum of money in advance of beginning work on the project. Let’s say that the amount is $500.00. You begin work on the project only after you receive the retainer. Then, as you work, your hourly rate is subtracted from the retainer balance.When the retainer balance drops below a certain dollar amount, for example, $100.00, the client will “replenish” the retainer back to $500.00. And you don’t continue working unless the retainer is replenished.The Replenishing Retainer also works for clients who pay you a flat fee or subscription rate. With these types of projects, the client pays to you a specific amount of money each month When you start using the Replenishing Retainer, you’ll find that cash flow problems will become a thing of the past. You won’t be chasing clients for money, and if they don’t replenish the retainer, you don’t work. It’s as simple as that.I use the Replenishing Retainer for almost all of my clients (some work I do is on a o ne time flat fee basis). So I know it works. And it can work for you too.If you have cash flow issues or problems getting paid on time, implement the Replenishing Retainer right away. And let me know what you think about this solution, or feel free to ask questions, in the comments below.

How to Overcome Objections in Your Job Search - Hire Imaging

How to Overcome Objections in Your Job Search - Hire Imaging 1. I’m too busy. When you phone hiring authorities or insiders to ask for face-to-face meetings, you will inevitably run into objections. The most common three are: I’m too busy. I don’t have time to meet with you. We’re not hiring. We don’t need anyone right now. Send me a (another) resume and we can perhaps discuss it then. Here are some scripts that you can use or adapt to counter these types of objections. 1. I’m too busy. You know, I could help you with that. Can we meet briefly so I can tell you how? It will only take a minute. I’d be happy to meet you anytime you say. I’d be happy to meet with you early, late or on a weekend if you’d like. I would never want to interfere with your normal workday. I’d just like you to look at my resume and see if you know anybody who might be interested in someone with my background. I promise it will only take a moment. I’ll meet you after work and buy you a drink, if you’d look at my background and give me any tips or advice you have. What do you think? You name the place and time. 2. We’re not hiring. Even if you’re not hiring now, would you be willing to meet with me for a few moments? If we can establish mutual interest, something may well open up sooner or later. Wouldn’t you like to have a qualified candidate in the wings in case something develops? You wouldn’t have to launch a from-scratch search. I understand that. I’d still like to meet with you briefly. Even though you don’t need anyone now, I’d like you to know what I have to offer. Then if something opens up, perhaps you’ll think of me. Even if you don’t anticipate an opening, would you be willing to meet with me anyway? I’d love to hear what ideas or tips you have for me? And perhaps you’ll think of a colleague, friend or acquaintance who I might talk to. I promise I won’t take more than five minutes of your time. Can we set a time during the day, or would you prefer I come after hours? I’d still like to meet with you briefly. Perhaps you’ll have a referral, lead or some buzz that could be helpful to me, and I’d really appreciate a moment of your time. Oh, I’m not asking for a job! I just want a moment of your time, since you know the industry (field, company, etc.), to see if you have any leads, ideas or referrals for me. It will only take a moment. I’d still like to meet with you briefly. I’ve been meeting with others in the field lately, and perhaps some of what I’ve learned could be of benefit to you. I’d be happy to share with you what I’ve learned, if you would share with me any leads or referrals you may have. 3. Send me your resume. I’d be happy to send you my resume. But to expedite things, let me tell you what’s on it. Why don’t we set up a very brief meeting, and I’ll bring you a copy in person. What would you like to know, Mr. Jones? I’d be happy to tell you right now. I did send it to you, but know emails get deleted and letters get rerouted. Let me tell you what it said. I’m the one who … Let me email (text, fax, etc.) it to you right now, Howard. We can discuss it, or I’ll call you right back. This is important. Despite the title of this post, you don’t have to actually overcome the objection. You just have to keep the conversation going. Stress that you only want a few minutes of your contact’s time. Be very clear that you will not be a nuisance or time zapper, and that you will meet with the contact at his or her convenience. Then go right back to asking for an appointment. “Would you be available for such a briefly meeting next Wednesday, or would later in the week be better?” Practice overcoming or countering objections with someone who is a job search accountability partner or support person. Of course, practicing with a professional career coach can be very helpful. You will not succeed every time. But sometimes, it’s going to mean the difference between turning away and pushing through. Photo: JD Hancock

CV Resume Writing and Academic History

CV Resume Writing and Academic HistoryThere are two parts to a CV resume that are generally placed in the document. The first part is the Educational Attainment section and the second part is the Professional Experience section.The most common thing that is in a written document is the Educational Attainment section, with one or more college diplomas. It's very important that students add their school information in the Educational Attainment area of their resumes. Not only do they have to show that they attended college but that they did so successfully. This will give them a chance to mention any qualifications they have that may not be in their admission essays.Next, the students can put in any personal details that they want to about themselves. They may have hobbies, a special interest or something that could be considered relevant to their field. The most important part of any document is its readability.The Professional Experience section is the most important part of any resu me. Any professionals who have done work on a job that was related to the job that you have applied for. If you had any field work on this job, that is part of the Professional Experience section. It should also include anything you have done to get yourself a job.While the Student Certificate courses are mostly irrelevant in terms of getting a job, it can still show that you have been going back to college or university on a regular basis and will show that you understand the concepts of education. The reason you have a high school diploma is because it was the only option for you to get your education. If you can find any employers that think this would be an asset they may prefer you for the job.It is always best to contact your own college advisor to see if they have any programs that are geared toward helping students go back to school. There are many companies that offer scholarships to college students who want to go back to school to get their degree. They are willing to hel p you pay for your course.If you want to go back to school to get a higher degree than just a GED, then it would be a good idea to use the Internet to search for scholarships that are for people with higher degrees. These scholarships can pay for tuition and other fees for you to further your education. If you are interested in getting a higher degree then this is the way to go.After your CV resume is completed you need to make sure that your employer knows that you have been to college. Some employers just don't realize that many students go back to college after college jobs and college courses are finished. Make sure that you make your application to get a job visible to your employer so that they can have the opportunity to contact you when they need someone.