Each of us needs a plan to empower our career. The purpose is to keep us on track as we go through the job search process. The goal is to make sure we reach the goals we have set. The 4 parts of a Career Empowerment Plan are:

1) The Planning Process

A simple one page statement of your goals, both personally and professionally for the next several years.

2) A dynamic hard hitting Career Package including:

• A resume that stands out from the crowd and gets employers excited.
• A cover letter that appears to be written for each employer.
• A reference list that sells (instead of just listing names & phone numbers).

The length, and how you format your resume needs to change to reflect current market conditions. Employers tell us they need solid, factual information on a candidate before they will invest the time to make a phone call, pay for interview trips, relocation expenses, etc. Prospective employers do not have the time to call every person that sends in a resume. The old fashioned 1-2 page resumes that resume writing books and resume writing services are pushing, is wrong for the hotel industry in this market. (The only time those resumes are effective is for jobs within commuting distance of your home or when your career is just starting out.) Long resumes, that highlight concrete accomplishments, are generating more interviews. Your objective needs to be specific. Your objective, experience, and professional affiliations all need to sell you. A dynamic resume starts a mindset in prospective employer's that says "This person can really help us. We need to impress this candidate. We may have to pay this person a little more than we planned on, but it sure appears this person will be worth it." That's the mindset you want to create before they pick up the phone to call you. It starts you out in the driver's seat. It's much better to be in the driver's seat than in the back seat.

3) A Marketing Plan to include:

Working your own network of contacts. Utilizing Executive Search firms and other professional organizations you belong to. A plan to expand your network of contacts. This is very critical if you are currently without a job.

4) Researching Companies

Before you interview, try to research the company, to find out exactly what they are looking for in a candidate. If you can't find information on the company, remember the following: all companies want people who can help them improve revenues, reduce costs, improve customer service and training, and reduce turnover. Prepare for your interview. Write down the most logical questions you think they will ask and then rehearse your answers in front of a mirror. Many people conduct interviews and hire people all the time. They forget that it is different when they are on the other side of the desk. Last, plan what you are going to wear and how you are going to look. The business world is still very conservative, plan accordingly.