Keep learning to advance your career Young professionals can move up in an organization by learning new skills and networking with mentors both in and outside of their field, writes career coach Liz Bentley. "Throughout your career, remember to be proactive, agile, and in a constant state of learning," she recommends. Marie Claire online (7/1)How to reroute a derailed career Many people are unfulfilled with their work due to an inability to overcome fears and character weaknesses, writes executive recruiter Jack Kelly. Reach your full potential with an honest evaluation of what's holding you back and by requesting challenging and purposeful projects. Forbes (6/25)
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Making the Connection
Matchmaking, generosity boost networking value Networking is most fruitful when we approach it with a generous spirit that wants to impart expertise to others, says Lisa Sun, CEO of Project Gravitas. She enjoys playing matchmaker by connecting a person with a problem to someone in her network who can help solve it. NBC News (7/3)
The Landscape
Health care costs a major concern for Americans, survey finds The American public is concerned about rising health care costs, with 77% expressing fear of damage to the country's economy and 41% saying they had avoided emergency department visits due to uncertainty about the cost, according to a national poll by Gallup and the West Health Policy Center. Forty-five percent said a major health issue could lead to bankruptcy. The Heartland Institute (7/1)
Before turning down a job offer, try to negotiate better terms, but don't hesitate to walk away if the job isn't a good fit, writes Peter Gudmundsson. Express clearly the reason for declining an offer and thank those who interviewed you or extended the offer for their time and consideration, he advises. U.S. News & World Report (6/28) The case for keeping the cover letter Despite the increased use of applicant tracking systems, writing a cover letter is still necessary, writes Kathleen Davis. It's your best opportunity to set your application apart by explaining what draws you to the position and how your accomplishments will contribute to the employer's success. Fast Company online (6/26)
Balancing Yourself
How to ease vacation anxiety Vacations can cause anxiety and stress for some people, but licensed clinical social worker Courtney Glashow says mentally walking through expected steps before they happen can ease discomfort. She offers tips for dealing with anxiety, including bringing a movie to watch while traveling and keeping to a schedule. SheKnows (7/1)Poll question: How much time off are you taking this summer? Vacation requests bump up in the summer months, with staycations by the pool, hiking in the mountains or a trip to Wally World. How much time off are you taking this summer? Poll results on Friday.
At the 10th annual Z Burger Eating Championship in Washington, D.C., defending winner Molly Schuyler ate 32 burgers in 10 minutes. Competitive eater Schuyler beat her own record from last year's contest when she consumed 27 burgers. United Press International (7/4)
Maybe all one can do is hope to end up with the right regrets.
Arthur Miller, playwright and essayist, in "The Ride Down Mount Morgan"