How to attract your dream client (or job)
One of the more interesting tactics I have heard implemented in pursuit of a ‘dream job’ was when a woman sent in her resume to a company, along with a barbie doll with only one arm. In her cover letter she wrote, “I’d give my left arm for this job”. Had I been in that HR department I might have thought it was a little bit creepy… but it worked! She got their attention, and landed the position.
While I understand professionalism is obviously necessary when job (or client) hunting, I also think its absolutely critical to stand out from the masses, especially with the competition out there today. Being unique is key to standing out in their inbox, or on top of a pile of resumes. Gimmicky resumes may not work the majority of the time – but being original and finding ways to effectively showcase your genuine originality are critical.
If you’re actually physically mailing in a resume — what are some thoughts on how you can stand out? Obviously, paper is key. So many of your competitors will send in their resume and cover letter using plain old white paper. How about a splash of color? In the cover letter – get real, don’t drone on and sound like the rest of the letters they need to sort through. Tell them specifically, “Here are 5 reasons why I’m perfect for this job.” Show your personality, ingenuity and intelligence! But – be authentic. Enthusiastic, but authentic. Don’t lay it on too thick and at the same time use that valuable space to highlight what is perfect about the position and what is perfect about you. Continue Reading >>
Follow Friday – Three Fabulous Women!
I’ve recommended @LollyDaskal in the past for inspiring tweets that always come across as heart-felt which in my experience usually means that was the intention. I mention her again today because I just happened upon this recent tweet that I liked:
lead from within: the way you react to the world only reflects how you feel about your self
You can sign up for Lolly’s newsletter on her website.
10 Ways that Freelancers can Help the Earth
In honor of Earth Day — I offer this list of ways that freelancers can (and do) do to help the Earth.
1. No commute! In 2007 the Energy and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Impact of Telecommuting and e-Commerce (PDF), conducted by TIAX estimated that telecommuters in the U.S. alone saved 840 million gallons of gas in a year. That CO2 reduction is equal to removing 2 million vehicles from the road every year.
2. Turn off your monitor when you’re not at your desk.
One computer left on 24 hours a day will cost you $115 – 160 in electricity costs a
year and dump 1,500 pounds of CO2 into the atmosphere.
A tree absorbs between 3-15 lbs of CO2 each year. That means that 100-500 trees
would be needed to offset the yearly emissions of one computer left on all the time! – Tufts Climate Initiative (PDF)
