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New Year, New You: Repurposing Your Skills
I'm not asking you to do more this year. Just because it's a new year, doesn't mean you need to take on even more. You don't need to make commitments to learn more, train more, or work more this year.

Rather, this episode talks about digging deep inside yourself. I ask you to look at the skills, knowledge, and expertise you already have. Perhaps you've forgotten about some of your key skill areas. Maybe they are not used as often as you'd like.

Regardless, today's episode challenges you to look at your existing capabilities. Get them out, dust them off, and start using them today for increased growth and achievement. You never know - a skill you possess that you use in a hobby or self-improvement activity might be something you can bring to the table to help increase your job satisfaction and performance this year.

Make 2022 your year by repurposing your skills!

Chapters
[01:51]
What exactly are we talking about when it comes to "New Year, New You"?

[03:13]
The skills you use and the activities you perform outside of work can play a big role in your repurposing and growth.

[04:23]
If you're drawing a blank on what skills you could repurpose then consider feedback from family, friends, and neighbors.

[06:51]
What groups are you involved in either outside of work or as part of a resource group that helps the community?

[08:37]
Maybe you're great at problem-solving or known as a quick thinker. You might find you're interested in a technical role.

[11:12]
Do you feel or have you been told that you're great at planning activities?

[11:50]
Dig deep inside yourself to pull out and repurpose your strongest skills.

[13:58]
Rather than do more with less, do more with what you already have.

Mentioned Links
Coaching with Craig
CGME: The Basics of Project Management

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The Benefits of Career Coaching
Have you ever wondered if career coaching was right for you? Regardless of where you are in your career growth journey, there's a coaching session that fits your needs.

Craig Ancel has released several types of virtual coaching sessions designed to fit into different stages of your career growth journey.

Discovery Coaching helps identify hidden factors affecting how you feel at work and how to improve upon them.

Targeted Job Coaching helps you identify and connect with a hiring company's messaging.

Interview Alignment Coaching prepares you to interview strongly and convey your value more concisely.

High-Performance Coaching can help accelerate your career growth within your company or your industry.

Chapters
[01:00]
You can benefit from career coaching, regardless of where you are in your career growth journey.

[02:03]
Determine which tried and true coaching session is best for you.

[03:57]
Discovery Coaching can help identify hidden factors that are contributing to the way you feel at work.

[04:55]
When you find that great job opportunity, you can almost envision yourself being part of the team.

[05:51]
Targeted Job Coaching can help you submit a stronger application, resume, and cover letter. You'll know the company's key messaging and how to connect with them.

[07:20]
How can you prepare for virtual, recorded, or in-person interviews? Set up an appointment for Interview Alignment Coaching.

[08:25]
Knowing what to say and how to say it is critical to your interviewing success. The same applies to knowing what not to say, what not to volunteer.

[09:04]
Speaking too much or excessively volunteering information can cause you to lose a job offer!

[10:13]
Interview Alignment Coaching can help you bring a clear, consistent message to your interview. Consistent messaging can improve the odds of receiving a job offer and with that a higher range salary.

[11:36]
If you are interested in advancing in your career High-Performance Coaching is right for you.

[12:52]
Improving your confidence and communication skills will help you prepare for upcoming advancement opportunities.

[13:35]
As the new year approaches, take some time for yourself, invest in yourself, and grow yourself!

Mentioned Links
craigancel.com/coaching

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Are You The Weakest Link?
When it comes to your job performance, how would you rate yourself? How have others rated you? Your peers, your management? What can you learn from your performance reviews?

Being the weakest link doesn't come from your training, education, or knowledge. It's about your emotional intelligence or your social communication skills. Besides effectively speaking, you need to know when to pause, listen well, and respond appropriately.

Today's episode can help you improve your standing when it comes to your job performance. Listen in to hear some not-so-stellar real-world ​​​​​​​examples and the ways to correct them. You never know, today's tips could help you on your career growth journey.

Chapters
[01:50]
Learn what inspired today's shop topic.

[03:07]
What creates a weak link? And what causes someone to become the weakest link?

[06:22]
See how Craig's 3P Rule can help you, it's called Powerfully Placed Pauses.
https://craigancel.com/podcast/51

[07:58]
Craig shares a real-world example of how his less-than-stellar interactions with a co-worker left a lasting negative impression.

[09:05]
Sometimes the tree rots from the top down.

[10:53]
Hitting not one, but two dead ends, Craig took matters into his own hands and implemented a solution.

[12:50]
What were some of the signs of weakness that Craig witnessed?

[14:29]
If you ever catch yourself in the weakest link situation, here are a few tips to help you recover & improve.

[15:58]
Where would you rate yourself in the chain-link sequence? Weakest, average, good, great, or exceptional?

Mentioned Links
CGME: Episode 51 - Craig's 3P Rule: Powerfully Placed Pauses
Craig Ancel's Website

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You Can't Always Be "On"
Regardless of your work ethic and your stamina, you can't always be "on" 24/7. Our bodies need breaks and rest. If we push too hard for too long, we could hit burnout. That can eventually lead to health issues. 

It's important to recognize the signs of when enough is enough.
Accept feedback from peers who are concerned you're been giving too much. When you hear certain trigger words or recognize burnout warning signs, make sure to take some time off to recharge.

When you do, make that disconnection both physically and mentally. Listen to today's episode to find out what some of the warning signs are and how to properly disconnect from work so you can truly refresh.

Chapters
[00:48]
Regardless of where you work or what you do, you can't always be on.

[01:43]
Taking breaks from work is great, but make sure you mentally recharge and refresh, too!

[02:20]
Extreme workloads can negatively affect your health.

[04:10]
We can't run at peak performance all the time, otherwise, it will drain our batteries.
https://craigancel.com/podcast/38

[06:20]
What have you been fueling your body with recently?
https://craigancel.com/podcast/39

[06:52]
Most companies are machines, the machines will keep taking if you keep giving.

[08:35]
To truly disconnect from your job, you need to mentally detach from your job. Be extra careful if you're working from home!

[12:51]
Join the Career Growth Made Easy Facebook group today!
http://www.facebook.com/groups/careergrowthmadeeasy/

Mentioned Links
NEW: Career Growth Made Easy Facebook Group - Join today!
NEW: Free Guide - The Basics of Project Management
CGME: Episode 38: Things That Rob Your Energy
CGME: Episode 39: What Do You Fuel Your Body With?

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The Basics of Project Management
You don't have to be a project manager to manage a project. What does that mean? That means, no matter your position, this episode is beneficial to you!

While there are plenty of aspects of project management, two key factors are required to be successful - communication and organization. From there, you'll multitask by monitoring your budget and keeping track of your allotted timetable.

As your project progresses, things can easily become overwhelming, but today's episode will prepare you by teaching you the basics of project management!

We'll discuss everything from low-level strategies to more complex ideas, like dynamic risk management. Give this episode a listen, and look out for an associated free guide next week!

Chapters
[00:35] 
Communication and organization are key skills required for basic project management.

[01:08] 
You need to know the vision or goal of the project.

[02:18]
When you perform reporting who will you report out to? What format will it be and what frequency?

[02:58]
The basics of project management revolve around managing time, money, resources, and scope.

[04:33]
It's natural to want to satisfy your customers' requests. But, you should carefully evaluate each one.

[05:55]
Stakeholders are people that have a valued interest in seeing your project completed successfully.

[07:10]
"The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn't said." Peter Drucker

[09:02]
What out for contradictory terms in project documents called DOR's (Division Of Responsibility).

[11:03]
Risk Management basics and ways to improve risk mitigation.

[15:12]
It's better to actively and dynamically manage risks than to create a static table.

[16:45]
One of the most expensive travel options is to use an Antonov airplane.

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2 Years of Career Growth Made Easy
 Thank you for 2 years of the Career Growth Made Easy Podcast. Your feedback has helped us serve up fresh, new content every week.

It's hard to believe, but this show was launched back in December 2019. Today, we're on track to hit 100+ episodes.

Check out our top 10 most listened to episodes over the past 2 years. We've even included some bonus episodes that didn't make the list, but are worthy contenders.

We hope you enjoy this episode recap as much as we enjoyed producing it. Happy 2nd Anniversary to our Career Growth Made Easy podcast!

Chapters
[00:58]
In position #10, episode #4, Are You 1 of 32?

[02:38]
Episode #29 No Job, No Resume, No Problem takes us to position #9.

[05:16]
Do you know your "why"? Go back and listen to episode 16 to help you define inner drive.

[06:01]
3 Bonus episodes are not in our top ten, but they are worthy contenders. Episode #15 I'm Exhausted Help, #38 Things That Rob Your Energy, and #39 What Do You Fuel Your Body With?

[07:12]
Position #7, episode #34 Does Speed Reading Really Work?

[08:16]
Episode #18 Coronavirus, Covid-19 Are Your Habits Healthy or Hazardous?

[10:02]
Entering into the top 5, we start with episode #11: Is My Resume Old?

[14:27]
In position #4 episode #10 was titled Are You Standing Out?

[16:31]
Interested in boosting your energy level? Episode #3 can help, it's in position #3, Overloaded by Email and Text.

[19:55]
Now we're down to the top 2. In position #2, it's episode #1, Introduction to Craig Ancel.

[20:31]
Our #1 position, episode #2, Is Your Resume Holding You Back?

Mentioned Links
CGME: #10, Episode 4: Are YOU 1 of 32?
CGME: #09, Episode 29: No Job, No Resume, No Problem
CGME: #08, Episode 16: What's Your "Why"?
CGME: #07, Episode 34: Does Speed Reading Really Work?
CGME: #06, Episode 18: Coronavirus COVID-19 Are Your Habits Healthy or Hazardous?
CGME: #05, Episode 11: Is My Resume Old?
CGME: #04, Episode 10: Are You Standing Out?
CGME: #03, Episode 3.: Overloaded by Email & Text
CGME: #02, Episode 1: Introduction to Craig Ancel
CGME: #01, Episode 2: Resume Holding You Back?
Bonus Episodes
CGME: Episode #15 I'm Exhausted Help
CGME: Episode #38 Things That Rob Your Energy
CGME: Episode #39 What Do You Fuel Your Body With?

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Evaluate Your Inner Circle
As we enter Thanksgiving holiday week, it's a great time to stop and evaluate our inner circles.  We should recognize and appreciate those that are close to us: family, friends, coworkers.

Each person plays a vital role and possesses unique skills and experience. Not only can you lean on them in tough times, but you can also be there for them when the tables turn.

There may be people in your inner circle that don't know each other.  You could play a vital role in connecting them.

Take some time to give thanks this week and reach out to your inner circle - a short text, email, or call is all that is needed.

Chapters
[00:43]
Who do you count as being in your inner circle?

[01:36]
Your job is your second home.

[02:11]
A solid, valuable inner circle can help your network grow.

[03:03]
Sometimes we can underestimate the value our inner circle provides.

[04:44]
Your background, experience, and knowledge could help someone in your inner circle jumpstart their idea or dream.

[07:50]
Who are your strongest fans, your promoters in your inner circle?

[08:12]
The more diverse your inner circle is, the more value it will bring!

[09:03]
You may be the link to bridge two of your inner circle connections together.

[10:28]
Don't overlook the value you possess. Your unique set of skills, education, and experience make you uniquely qualified to help others in certain situations.

Mentioned Links
CGME: #51 Powerfully Placed Pauses

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What Got You Here Won't Get You There
Today's podcast was inspired by a lunchtime conversation with a Fortune 500 Vice President of Finance. When a challenging situation was brought up, she commented recalling something similar nearly 20 years ago.

That got me thinking. Change is inevitable, but in some cases, it may need to be forced. Sitting by and waiting will only lead to more repetition of the same. I suggest we move from reactive mode to proactive. 

One way to do that is to up our attention to detail. We can do this by listening and processing the information we receive more effectively. ​​​​​​​Today, I'll share a few great ways to do that.   

Chapters
[02:46]
We can all play a special, individualized role in how we help our organizations, including solving challenges.

[03:31]
When we respond to problems we're being reactionary.

[05:00]
Taking the time to look at the details a little more closely can really pay off!

[07:45]
Our brains naturally search our memories and constantly try to link up similar information.

[09:14]
Attention to detail is critical! We need to do a better job filtering out information and focusing on what's truly important.

[11:12]
Listen carefully to identify when problems, challenges, or issues arise. Pause and collect your thoughts before responding.

[13:55]
Stop doing what you always have done. Transition from reactionary mode to proactive.

[15:06]
Don't let a misplaced or outdated resume hold you back. Check out Craig Ancel's Resume Master Class.

[15:54]
If you're skipping job postings that require cover letters, you could be missing out on great opportunities. Build out your customized cover letter today!

Mentioned Links
CGME #51: Powerfully Placed Pauses
Don't let a misplaced or outdated resume hold you back!
Are you skipping job postings that require a cover letter? We've got your solution.

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Throw Away Your Resume
If you have a resume, that's great! But, do you know where it is? Do you know the last time you updated it?

To be prepared for your future you should always have an updated resume. That means updating it at least once a year. But, that doesn't get you off the hook. If you truly want to make a great first impression and grab that interview your resume should be customized to every targeted job you apply for.

That means you're creating a unique resume for every job you apply for. The days of building a single, generic resume are over.  However, you can likely use a large portion of your resume content when applying for similar positions.

Listen in to find out more about making job-targeted resumes.

Chapters
[00:44]
Before you can throw away your resume you need to have one. You also need to know where it is.

[02:08]
Don't wait until you suffer a job loss and go into battle stations mode.
 
[02:56]
You don't want to have a single resume. You need a create job-targeted resumes.
 
[04:33]
Most companies use resume scanning software called Applicant Tracking Systems to filter out applicants.
 
[07:15]
When you update your resume remember to use WIIFM, What's In It For Me. Just make sure you look at it from your potential future employer's viewpoint.
 
[08:35]
Does your resume have visual appeal to signal "read on" or is it an eyesore?
 
[09:58]
Thinking differently, what can you eliminate from your resume?
 
[11:42]
Here's one reminder you don't want to forget setting!
 
[13:05]
Craig Ancel's Resume Master Class Anniversary Special!
https://craigancel.com/rmc

Mentioned Links
Craig Ancel's Resume Master Class Anniversary Special Discount

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Resume Trends of 2021
What are some of the popular resume trends happening this year? Today's episode shares some research on this topic.

If you can't clearly convey your value to a potential future employer, you may have a hard time getting an interview. So let's polish up your resume. Find it, dust it off, and update your resume today.

It's best to be prepared should that unfortunate day come when downsizing, a reduction in force, or reduced hours come your way.  You can also make your resume ready for when a promotion becomes available. You'll have less to update because you've been proactive.

Find out what's recommended, what's been problematic, and what to avoid.

Chapters
[01:48]
The top recommendation for resumes in 2021 is to use keywords.

[02:04]
Keep your resume short. But is 1 or 2 pages enough?

[02:39]
Another trend, get specific, but what exactly does that mean?

[04:02]
Don't forget to include tech skills and soft skills on your resume.

[04:44]
In 2021 it's trending to link your personal website or social media accounts on your resume.

[05:14]
What is a skill-based resume? And why is the trend recommending I include this?

[05:58]
It's recommended against using objective statements. Find out why!

[07:31]
Highlight or header statements are popular in 2021.

[07:55]
The use of metrics or numeric statements is highly encouraged. Learn how to use SMART on your resume to clearly list your specific accomplishments.

[11:15]
Make sure your resume is error-free.

[12:01]
Free online resume review software may not be worth your time.

[13:07]
Matt's feedback on Craig Ancel's Resume Master Class.

[14:16]
When is the last time you updated your resume? Go find your resume right now, dust it off, update it and get it ready for your future!

[15:39]
Check out Craig Ancel's all-new Cover Letter Master Class!

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