11 Ways to Make Working from Home Your New Normal

When you’re used to going into the office each day for your job, working from home can feel stressful, isolating, and nearly impossible. The good news is that though we can expect remote work to stay awhile (if not forever), there are ways to make things easier. Here’s how to stop coping and start thriving by making your work-at-home situation feel more normal.

Start a New Routine

You may no longer have a commute, but a routine can be a healthy way to transition to your new normal. Try these techniques for maintaining your sanity—and schedule—at home.

·        Create a schedule based on your previous habits.

·        Take breaks—the right way.

·        Set boundaries for work versus life.

Create a Productive Workspace

Setting up your work area is an essential step toward productive and enjoyable work. Try these tips to establish a space that works for you.

·        Ensure your internet connection is up to the task of telecommuting.

·        Design a dedicated workspace (instead of camping out on the couch).

·        Keep ergonomics in mind when choosing equipment or furniture.

·        Factor in productivity and establish a distraction-free area.

Find Ways to Reach Out

Now that you’re working solo at home, water cooler chat is a thing of the past. But that doesn’t mean you can’t connect with others outside the office.

·        Engage in team-building efforts each day.

·        Find ways to collaborate remotely.

·        Consider finding a mentor to support your work at home goals.

·        Get professional help from Life-Works if you experience work injuries or discomfort.

There are both significant benefits and extreme challenges involved when you’re adapting to work at home. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of resources to help you navigate the difficulties—and embrace the positive elements. Get started with this list, and you’ll feel better—and become more productive—working from home in no time.

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 I'd love to hear from you! Comment below....

Mary Sherwood, MS, CDMS, CCM

lifeworks@mail.com

Professional, Rehab, & Occupational Services, LLC

http://www.life-works.info

http://www.injuredworkerhelpdesk.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysevinsky

Landline 302.644.1827 | Mobile: 410.444.1989 | Skype Mary E. Sherwood

Let me know how you are doing or how I can help! 

Comment below or reach out. 

  

Crisis Management: Looking for Work

Lately, it really feels like Spring and underlines the change of season that is coming imminently! 

Change can be both exciting and scary - something to look forward to or dread.  How you view it makes all the difference in the world.

If you have lost your job and are looking for work you may find yourself feeling forced to make a career change. Typically this is not met with a positive attitude.  You likely loved your job, did it well, and planned to continue performing as long as you could.  It was known and comfortable.

When you are forced to make a change, it may be difficult to find the proverbial silver lining. That having been said, there are some positive things that may come from changing careers (forced or otherwise!)

1. This may be the first time you have been able to consider what YOU would LIKE TO DO.  Chances are you got your first job by chance, maybe through a relative or friend.  You may have changed employers or jobs as other opportunities presented themselves.  But in all likelihood, you didn't plan your current career path. Now you can take the time to consider an plan a new path - you never know, you may find another job or career that you will like just as well.

2. Making one change often prompts you to examine other aspects of your life.  What other things have you not really given thought to?  Paid attention to? Ignored? This might be an opportunity to improve other parts of yourself or life as well.

3. Making a change can keep your mind alert.  Often, when you do the same things the same ways, your mind fills in the blanks easily.  Your mind isn't challenged and pushed to perform at its best.  Neither are you! Try to think about different things or the same things differently.

4. Change can rejuvenate your relationships.  If you have been looking for work for what seems an eternity your relationships may be suffering for it.  Think about those around you - loved ones and close friends.  How can you change your interactions for the better?

5. Ask yourself how you deal with change.  Is your approach helping or hurting? How can you modify your approach to benefit yourself and those around you?

6. Understanding that you control how you handle change can really help you deal with it.  Try to focus on the things you can control and face the change before you with a positive mindset if you want to make the most of it.

How do you handle change?


I'd love to hear from you! Comment below...


Mary Sherwood, MS, CDMS, CCM
lifeworks@mail.com
Professional, Rehab, &; Occupational Services, LLC
http://www.life-works.info
http://www.injuredworkerhelpdesk.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysevinsky
Landline 302.644.1827 | Mobile: 410.444.1989 | Skype Mary E. Sherwood

Let me know how you are doing or how I can help!

Comment below or reach out.


Other articles that may be of interest:

Job Seach Tip Read Something in Your Industry.wmv

This can really give you an edge over another candidate, even if you are making a lateral change. ...it can make you feel connected and confident - something you miss when you aren't working or facing a career change.


Job Search for the Rest of Us!: map out your ideal work day

Whether you Considering a career change or looking to change employment, your first step should be to think about how you want your workday to be. As adults, we spend at least a third of our day working. Get few of us give ...

Job Search Tip: map out your ideal day

Whether you Considering a career change or looking to change employment, your first step should be to think about how you want your work day to be.  As adults, we spend at least a third of our day working. Get few of us give much thought to planning our careers.

Most often, myself included, we have just kind of "lucked into" this or that job or career.  What's more, once in a position, we often count ourselves lucky to be among the employed. We don't have it so bad...

If you are reading this it is likely that you are at least wondering what else might be out there. If you are unemployed you might be tempted to disregard this article entirely.  DON'T.

You will be far more successful in your job search if you know what you want and are eager to pursue it.  Without a focus of some sort, you will be more likely to miss out on opportunities for pursuing what could be your dream job.

Stop what you are doing now and jot a few notes about what you would like your workday to be like.  Would you prefer to work:

Days or nights

In an office or at home

For a large corporations or a small business

Alone or as part of a team

On the phone or in the field

With people things or information

Getting your hands dirty or dressing up every day

At a predetermined rate or sky's the limit commission

In a position of responsibility or following directions

These are just a few of the questions you can ask yourself to begin planning a satisfying career. Not down even more ideas as you come across jobs that pique your interest. Once you have a focus don't be afraid to look beyond what you are currently searching for and assess what opportunities make sense given where you want to go.

It's your journey.  Why not make the most of it?

I'd love to hear from you... comment below

Mary Sherwood, MS, CDMS, CCM

lifeworks@mail.com

Professional, Rehab, &; Occupational Services, LLC

http://www.life-works.info

http://www.injuredworkerhelpdesk.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysevinsky

Landline 302.644.1827 | Mobile: 410.444.1989 | Skype Mary E. Sherwood

Let me know how you are doing or how I can help! 

Comment below or reach out.

Read another great article: Suggested Job Search Schedule

Making a career change?

Determine the Job You Want

The very first thing you need to do is determine the exact thing you want to do in your job. If you really have no idea, first make a list of the things you like to do and the things that you feel are a strength for you. If you are still struggling with an idea, consider reading: Finding Your Career Passion.

If you already have an idea — you are a marketing major, but just aren’t sure what in marketing you would like to do — then your next step is investigating various job titles in your area of interest.

Determine Where You Want to Live

Are you open to relocating, or do you have a very specific geographic location in mind? If you have a specific location in mind, then your next step is identifying the companies that have offices/plants/locations in those areas. Probably the best way to identify these companies is through local chambers of commerce or other business directories.

If you are opening to relocating, then you can move on to the next step.

Determine the Best Companies for You

You need to make some decisions about the types of companies that fit your needs, style, and personality. Examine such issues as the size of the company, corporate culture, management style, employee empowerment, and other issues of importance to you. Not sure of exactly what you’re seeking in an employer? Take our Workplace Values Assessment to learn more about what you seek in an employer.

Determine the Job You Want

The very first thing you need to do is determine the exact thing you want to do in your job. If you really have no idea, first make a list of the things you like to do and the things that you feel are a strength for you. If you are still struggling with an idea, consider reading: Finding Your Career Passion.

If you already have an idea — you are a marketing major, but just aren’t sure what in marketing you would like to do — then your next step is investigating various job titles in your area of interest.

Determine Where You Want to Live

Are you open to relocating, or do you have a very specific geographic location in mind? If you have a specific location in mind, then your next step is identifying the companies that have offices/plants/locations in those areas. Probably the best way to identify these companies is through local chambers of commerce or other business directories.

If you are opening to relocating, then you can move on to the next step.

Determine the Best Companies for You

You need to make some decisions about the types of companies that fit your needs, style, and personality. Examine such issues as the size of the company, corporate culture, management style, employee empowerment, and other issues of importance to you. Not sure of exactly what you’re seeking in an employer? Take our Workplace Values Assessment to learn more about what you seek in an employer.

Your Job Search Strategy

Sunday:  Review and apply to help wanted ads online and/or in classifieds (If your local paper comes out on a different day, start this schedule from that day and change the below dates accordingly…)

Monday:  Call those ads that request a call and obtain directions/additional information for ads asking to apply in person

Tuesday: Apply in person, return calls of employers who called, attend any job development / training meetings, review job seeking skills material online/participate in groups.

Wednesday:  Cold calls and practice interviewing, other job seeking skills training

Thursday:  follow up calls with any outstanding employers, work force technology job search

Friday:  Networking – Call friends and identify employers who are hiring.  Call and follow up with Staffing agencies you registered with

Don’t forget to take regular breaks, eat meals (not at your desk or while doing anything else), and go outside daily.  Volunteering is a great way to have something to look forward to and provides good social feedback.

 'I'd love to hear from you! Comment below....

Mary Sherwood, MS, CDMS, CCM
lifeworks@mail.com
Professional, Rehab, & Occupational Services, LLC
http://www.life-works.info
http://www.injuredworkerhelpdesk.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysevinsky
Landline 302.644.1827 | Mobile: 410.444.1989 | Skype Mary E. Sherwood

Let me know how you are doing or how I can help! 

Comment below or reach out. 

Resume and LinkedIn writing services

The reason you often hear that a one-page resume is preferred is that the employer often doesn't turn the page on the first pass. That is why I use a customized format for each client- all the important information is included on the first page, which can stand alone if necessary.  Expanded information can be provided on a second and even third page if necessary.

An employer will review your resume, at least, three times for three different reasons, so we want your resume to address to those three separate occasions:

#1 Deciding your resume goes in the
Keep or Discard Pile
#2 Deciding if you are an actual candidate
Pick me, pick me!
#3 When called for an interview – to write questions to ask or to refer to during the meeting

I could rebuild your resume for $150 or if you need help with a cover letter and LinkedIn I could offer you a package rate for all three for $250.  I am willing to negotiate if you need, but I think these are pretty good prices.  I suppose someone may offer you a lower price! I don't think anyone would give you better results. It all depends on what you are looking for...

Typically I have a one-week turnaround, but I have taken as long as a month if a customer needs it. I prefer to finish up as quickly as possible so my client can start the job search process, but sometimes while working together the client decides to change course! This is fine with me as it is sometimes just part of the career planning process.

Here is a short list of what you can expect from my resume writing process:

I will rebuild your resume and your image by ensuring the skills and abilities employers are looking for are highlighted as well as your achievements! I will also change the formatting, which is very easy to change if you don't like anything or if you would prefer something specifically.

My main goals are to:

1. Make your resume stand out from others.'
2. Make it easy for an employer to pick it up and very quickly see why you warrant a call for an interview!
3. Present your particular information in a way that is appropriate to your job target(s)
4. Use as much of your words from your original resume to keep it from sounding generic
5. Ensure you are happy with the result and comfortable discussing the contents with a potential employer!

After we are satisfied I will send to my assistant to review for consistency, grammar, etc…

I look forward to assisting you! We can get started today if you like. If you have other questions or concerns, please let me know. Thank you for taking the time to consider me!

Mary Sherwood, MS, CDMS, CCM

Occupational Consultant | Landline 302.644.1827 | Mobile:  410.444.1989                                                     

LinkedIn Pro: https://www.linkedin.com/pro/marysevinsky                                                     

Free Resources: www.JobSearchForTheRestOfUs.com

Website: www.Life-Works.Info

www.about.me/marysevinsky

Let’s Connect: LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Website

Include achievement-based details in your resume

I often receive resumes from potential clients that look just fine. Okay.  I can tell they worked hard on the resume, and there are no terrible red flags, but their approach is typical to most job seekers/resume writers – providing more of a laundry list of duties rather than communicating what you can do for your current or new employer, depending upon your goal for the resume.  

The reason you often hear that a one-page resume is preferred is that the employer often doesn't turn the page on the first pass. That is why I use a customized format for each client- all the important information is included on the first page, which can stand alone if necessary.  Expanded information can be provided on a second and even third page if necessary.


 
An employer will review your resume, at least, three times for three different reasons, so we want your resume to address to those three separate occasions:

An employer will review your resume, at least, three times for three different reasons, so we want your resume to address to those three separate occasions:

#1 Deciding your resume goes in the Keep or Discard Pile
#2 Deciding if you are an actual candidate Pick me, pick me!
#3 When called for an interview – to write questions to ask or to refer to during the meeting


It is important that your resume meets all of these needs.  One good way to start is by including information that is achievement-based.  State what you have done in a way that makes it clear what you can and will do for the potential employer. This is all they really want to know!

Here is a good and short article that helps to guide how you should approach writing details in your resume:  http://lifehacker.com/improve-your-resume-with-this-simple-formula-recommende-1566107526 in short it says:  "The key is to frame your strengths as: 'I accomplished X, about Y, by doing Z.”

Achievements:  Objective information about your abilities – Won Best Employee of the Year Award 3 out of 4 years OR Numbers based information about your abilities – Handled 40 accounts concurrently or reduced anticipated costs by 40%  
http://jobsearch.about.com/od/resumewriting/a/resumewow.htm

Another way to make sure you stand out is to communicate your personality and work qualities.  Soft Skills:  Qualities rather than skills - personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people. Can also include qualities that make you a good worker – Creative, Persistent, Problem Solver, Team Player, Leader, etc  (more info here: http://n.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soft_skills)
Want to go it alone?  Download free resume templates here.  If you find you do need help, I will revise your document based on any of these templates for only $50.

If you need my help to revamp your current resume: Typically I have a one-week turnaround, but I have taken as long as a month if a customer needs it. I prefer to finish up as quickly as possible so my client can start the job search process, but sometimes while working together the client decides to change course! This is fine with me as it is sometimes just part of the career planning process.

Here is a short list of what you can expect from my resume writing process:

I will rebuild your resume and your image by ensuring the skills and abilities employers are looking for are highlighted as well as your achievements! I will also change the formatting, which is very easy to change if you don't like anything or if you would prefer something specifically.
My main goals are to:

1. Make your resume stand out from others'. 
2. Make it easy for an employer to pick it up and very quickly see why you warrant a call for an interview! 
3. Present your particular information in a way that is appropriate to your job target(s) 
4. Use as much of your words from your original resume to keep it from sounding generic 
5. Ensure you are happy with the result and comfortable discussing the contents with a potential employer!

Mary Sherwood, MS, CDMS, CCM

Occupational Consultant | Landline 302.644.1827 | Mobile:  410.444.1989                                                     

Schedule Time or Write a Review

Free Resources: www.JobSearchForTheRestOfUs.com

Website: www.Life-Works.Info

www.about.me/marysevinsky

Let’s Connect: LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Website

JOB SEARCH FOR THE REST OF US Group on Linkedin: http://lnkd.in/dB5sATb

Free Career Goals and Job Log Download

Some important tasks in job search include:

1. Having clear long and short term goals
2. Keeping organized in your job search
3. Following up on your applications
4. Varying your job search approach
5. Networking

This free download will help you with all of the above and more.  Use it to get organized and moving in the right direction in your job search or career change. Career Goals and Job Log

If you need help, just send me an email or schedule a free introductory consult.

online scheduling - by BookFresh

New Social Resume

Visit CareerCloud.com to get your own....

Online Resume Preparation Tool

The right resume can open doors for your career. However, creating a professional resume on your own is not always easy. This is why we offer an online resume preparation tool. Using this tool, you can easily create an informative resume that looks clean and modern. Our tool is user-intuitive, so virtually anyone can create a resume for their dream job or position.

Our resume building tool has several different sections, such as contact information, experience, skills, and education. All you need to do is input your information into the appropriate boxes, and our program will automatically complete the layout for you. This way, you don’t have to worry about formatting or templates. There are even several options available, so you can choose from something more casual or more elegant. As long as you use the right information, you’ll end up with a professional document that will impress any hiring manager.

The program will give you several options once your resume has been completed. For your convenience, you can either print out your resume for immediate use, save it to your hard drive, or even send it directly to yourself or a hiring manager via email. Whether you need a resume right now or if you are making one proactively, there is an option to suit your needs. 

Click here to get started now!

Don't forget to ask me for a free resume review once you have completed your new resume!  Just send me an email or schedule a free introductory consult.

online scheduling - by BookFresh

The Importance Of A Great Cover Letter

Cover letters are an important part of the job application process. They serve as an introduction to the hiring manager and briefly outline your interest in the position. The right cover letter can help you land your dream job, so it needs to be professional. Our cover letter preparation tool can help you create the best cover letter for your job hunt.

Our cover letter template helps you get started by having an appropriate letter already written out for you. All you need to do is fill in the blanks with your information, the information about the company you are applying to, and more. It is also flexible, so if you want to create your own letter, that option is available. There are three different design layouts available as well, so you can choose one that reflects your own style.

When you are finished creating your cover letter, you can decide how you want to receive the file. For in-person applications, print out a copy and keep it with your resume. For online applications, you can email your cover letter directly. You can also save your created letter to your hard drive as a document or PDF file for future use. 

---

Click here to get started now!

Wilmington Career Fair - Meet me there!

https://www.facebook.com/events/376129772559033/

Need help in the meantime, no problem!

online scheduling - by BookFresh

Mary Sherwood, MS, CDMS, CCM

Mary@Life-Works.Info
Occupational Consultant Landline 302.644.1827

Mobile:  410.444.1989  

Let’s Connect:

LinkedInTwitter
Facebook

Careerealism

JOB SEARCH FOR THE REST OF US Group on Linkedin: http://lnkd.in/dB5sATb

How to write detail in your resume

Your resume will be read by the employer three times#1 Deciding your resume goes in the

Keep or Discard Pile

#2 Deciding if you are an actual candidate

#3 When called for an interview – to write questions to ask or to refer to during the meeting

Here is a good and short article that helps to guide how you should approach writing details in your resume:  http://lifehacker.com/improve-your-resume-with-this-simple-formula-recommende-1566107526 in short it says:  "The key is to frame your strengths as: 'I accomplished X, relative to Y, by doing Z.”

Achievements:  Objective information about your abilities – Won Best Employee of the Year Award 3 out of 4 years OR Numbers based information about your abilities – Handled 40 accounts concurrently or reduced anticipated costs by 40% (more info here: http://jobsearch.about.com/od/resumewriting/a/resumewow.htm)

Soft Skills:  Qualities rather than skills - personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people. Can also include qualities that make you a good worker – Creative, Persistent, Problem Solver, Team Player, Leader, etc  (more info here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soft_skills)

The Anatomy of the Perfect Science & Medical Temporary Employees (STEM)

Because of the uncertainty in the economy, companies are relying heavily on temporary employees and leading the charge are the science and medical industries (STEM).

Our guide looks at the attributes that make for a perfect STEM employee.

15 ways to overcome procrastination and get stuff done

Toot your own horn to get ahead in your career

Toot your own horn to get ahead in your career Dec 8, 2014 64Views 1Like 0CommentsShare on LinkedInShare on FacebookShare on Google PlusShare on Twitter So often when I work with clients I find that one of the most difficult things I ask them to do is to think about what makes them stand out from other candidates. The questions and answers may be slightly different depending upon if we are working on a resume, LinkedIn profile, interview preparation, or
career planning. Read more...

Make it a Giving Holiday with an E-Gift Card for Career Services

Do you have a friend, relative, or loved one who is out of work, under-employed, or just plain miserable at work?
Give them a gift that will really mean something and get the new year started out on the right foot…

Visit us on Facebook...
Post by Professional, Rehab, and Occupational Services.

DelMarValous

Many of our DelMarVa neighbors come here as a part of a retirement plan, but may not have much of a plan at all.  Dreams of enjoying life near the beach or in more rural areas may have been dampened by the unexpected expense of actually living here full time.  Or, worse, by boredom!

Many of my 55+ clients are bored and miss the social aspects of working. However, there are not a lot of jobs out there and the ones that are available are quickly snapped up.

Read More