erickellycoach

Don't Let the Bots Eat Your Resume!

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 16:20:13 GMT

So, you’ve got the skills, the experience, the charm… and yet your résumé keeps vanishing into the black hole of HR software. That’s because you’re fighting the machine—an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Think of it as Tinder for résumés: if you don’t have the right keywords, you’ll never get a swipe right.

Here’s how to make friends with robots:

Customize or Be Ghosted

Generic résumés are like mass texts: ignored. Tailor every résumé to the job description like you’re dressing for that one interview you really want to nail.

Speak Their Language (a.k.a. Keywords)

If the job post screams “project management,” don’t whisper “organized.” Match their words, both spelled out and abbreviated (PMO vs. Project Management Office). Robots are picky.

Keep It Simple, Human

No tables, sidebars, or cute section titles like “My Amazing Adventures.” Stick to boring headers: Work Experience, Education, Skills. Robots like boring.

Format Like It’s 1999

Reverse-chronological order is the Beyoncé of résumé formats—always on top, always works. Functional résumés? Robots swipe left.

Fonts: Don’t Get Fancy

Stick to the classics (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman). If your font looks like it belongs on a wedding invitation, the ATS will choke.

Kill the Headers & Footers

That clever contact info in your page header? Lost forever. Keep important stuff front and center.

Save It Right

Docx is safest. PDF is okay if they say so. Just follow instructions like your career depends on it—because it does.

Bottom line: ATS isn’t out to get you, it’s just a dumb robot that needs clear instructions. Treat it like your GPS—feed it the right data, and you might actually get to your destination (aka an interview).

My coworkers are passing me by on the promotion list. What’s up with that?!!

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 20:37:28 GMT

There are many things that can affect one’s ability to get ahead at a particular job. The two most critical components are whether or not your supervisor likes you and the second is where you positioned on the lis t . Most people are unaware though that there is an informal pecking order list. This unwritten list represents how the team is perceived by leadership. If you are a newcomer you will not pass a long term name. Get over it and wait your turn. However you can move up on the list faster by outclassing other folks on the list but you will have to be an extraordinary performer to accomplish this. The most daunting hurdle is that you could be in a situation where your boss just doesn’t like you. If you find out that this is the case you have two choices, find a way to improve your supervisor’s perception of you or move to another group. Long term supervisor dislike usually doesn’t end well for the employee. Usually a sit down with your supervisor will yield clues on what you need to work on.

Years ago I remember asking a supervisor why another employee was up for promotion instead of me. I mean I had better results, at least on paper. I was better at the technical parts of my job and people generally thought I was a hoot to be around. I asked her what the deal was. Then she gave me a brutal assessment that I needed but at the time thought was more painful than necessary. She said “Eric you are full of ______!” Stunned, I was motionless as she mercilessly read me the ‘riot act’ from beginning to end. She said “you have a ton of potential and you are not remotely interested in doing anything with it.” I was able to stammer that I got good results but her response was just as brutal. “Everyone gets good results son or we fire them! You sir, do just enough to be ‘queen of the pigs’ and no more.” By the time she was done I had been bloodied and battered by a vicious barrage of reality ‘grenades’.

As she saw my shoulders begin to slump with the approach of imminent submission, she softened slightly to explain her frustration. “Eric,” she said, “you could run this place if you actually put forth your best effort. People all know you could do extraordinary things but you seldom do.” Now in my mind because I got slightly better results than my peers I thought I should be touted as awesome. I was blissfully ignorant of the reality that that most of us are measured on the perception of effort coupled with the results that we achieve. Superiors want to see people that are dedicated and focused. Then when the good numbers come there is a clear link between cause and results. Leaders then can calibrate their objectives based on how much effort they believe they can get from their employees. Someone who does just enough to say they get their numbers but doesn’t give true effort is frustrating to the boss. They may not fire them but they are not looking to promote those not seen as not truly dedicated.

Eventually I learned the lesson she was trying to teach me. Sadly it didn’t happen immediately but the day that it did, wow! I remember waking up feeling I wanted more than just the mediocre life I had. Watching successful peers who may not have been as naturally talented but much more focused, eventually brought me out of my career ‘sleepwalk’. Remembering that talk with my honest supervisor, I enrolled a cadre of mentors who I asked to be brutally honest as they helped me. I garnered a some ego ‘bruises’ in these sessions but collected exponentially more wisdom.

Lesson: Don’t expect to get promoted if you cannot guarantee your work ‘product’ is not perceived to be packed with your best efforts. Also it’s a good idea to get some experienced mentors on your side. To quote one of my mentors, “You gotta bring some to get some!”

Eric Kelly is a professional executive career and lifestyle coach with over thirty years of experience in corporate America. He has established management development systems in the US, Europe, South America, Africa and the Middle East

From Middle Management To The Top: Your Guide To Climbing The Corporate Ladder

info@truedigitalmktg.com (True Digital) — Sat, 05 Oct 2024 16:29:02 GMT

Ah, middle management: the corporate world’s waistline, where many of us feel a bit more squeezed than we’d like. It’s the bittersweet symphony of being not quite the newbie but not yet the head honcho. But fear not! Ascending from this rung is less about escaping a bear pit and more about mastering a chessboard. Here’s how you can checkmate your way to the top.

1. Performance: Your Opening Move

In the realm of corporate chess, performance is your opening gambit. It’s not just about working hard but working smart. Remember, the higher-ups might not know your name yet, but they’ll definitely hear about your results. Tackle projects that have visibility, tie them to revenue or cost-saving outcomes, and always, always deliver more than expected. Think of it as not just doing your job but staging a performance where the C-suite are your silent audience.

2. Image: Crafting Your Corporate Persona

Image is the outfit your career wears. It’s not about being a sartorial splendor but aligning how you wish to be perceived with how you actually are perceived. Are you the go-to problem solver, the innovation guru, or the steady hand in a crisis? Cultivate this image consistently. Dress the part, talk the part, and walk the part. Remember, in the corridors of power, shadows cast are just as important as the figures casting them.

3. Exposure: Playing Beyond the Board

If performance is what you do well, and image is how you are seen, exposure is about who sees you. Volunteering for cross-functional projects, attending strategic meetings, and seeking roles in high-visibility initiatives are all part of getting exposure. It’s like ensuring you’re in the field of vision when someone scans the room for the next leader. Networking is key – and no, it’s not schmoozing. It’s about building genuine relationships that can open doors and provide support as you climb higher.

4. Relationships: The Glue That Holds Everything Together

You’ve got the moves, the look, and the audience, but the glue that holds all this together is relationships. Building strong, positive relationships at all levels of the organization can propel you forward faster than your own ambition. Be collaborative, be respectful, and be a mentor as much as you seek mentorship. Leadership is a team sport; people should want to see you lead.

5. Stay Agile: The Game Changes Quickly

Finally, be prepared for the game to change—new players, new rules, and new goals. Stay agile and adaptable. Keep learning, keep growing, and most importantly, keep your sense of humor. At the end of the day, every corporate ladder leans against the wall of life, and it’s important to enjoy the climb.

So, there you have it. Climb with purpose, climb with poise, and climb with passion. And while you’re at it, throw down a few ladders for the next batch of middle managers. After all, what’s a game without successors to challenge the new status quo?

Eric Kelly is a professional executive career and lifestyle coach with over forty years of experience in corporate America. He has established management development systems in the US, Europe, South America, Africa and the Middle East.

Career Reinvention: Strategies to Navigate and Succeed in a New Field

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 16:22:59 GMT

So, you’ve decided to jump ship and swim to the shores of a brand-new career. Bravo! Whether you’re fleeing a sinking industry or just bored to tears by your current job, reinventing your career is like getting a backstage pass to a new act in the opera of your professional life. But before you take the stage, let’s talk strategy, with a hint of wit and a whole lot of practical advice.

1. Define Your Why

First things first, get clear on why you’re making the switch. Is it for passion, profit, or because you can’t stand the sight of your office’s water cooler anymore? Understanding your motivations will act as your North Star, guiding you through the inevitable challenges and late-night LinkedIn sessions.

2. Skill Audit: Take Inventory

Next, it’s time for a skill audit. Lay out all your skills on the metaphorical table. Which ones are transferable? Which are as outdated as floppy disks? Identify the gaps, and don’t be shy about it. This isn’t just about what you can bring to the table, but also what you can quickly pick up on the fly.

3. Education: Back to School

No, you don’t need another four-year degree—unless you’re pivoting to neurosurgery, in which case, please proceed to medical school. For most fields, online courses, workshops, and seminars can equip you with the needed knowledge without the crippling student debt. Be a sponge—learn aggressively.

4. Networking: The Art of Schmoozing

Networking is not just exchanging business cards or adding strangers on LinkedIn. It’s about forging genuine connections that can open doors in your new field. Attend industry meetups, join relevant forums, and maybe even volunteer. You’re not just building a network; you’re weaving your new safety net.

5. Personal Branding: Repackage Yourself

Your personal brand is what people say about you when you’re not in the room. So, what’s your story? Craft a narrative that connects your past experience with your new career goals. Revamp your resume, LinkedIn profile, and yes, even your elevator pitch. Be the candidate everyone wants to meet.

6. Real-World Experience: Get Your Hands Dirty

Theory is great, but practice is better. Find ways to gain practical experience. Freelance projects, part-time gigs, or internships can be great ways to get your foot in the door. Show that you’re not just enthusiastic but also capable.

7. Patience and Persistence: The Dynamic Duo

Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your new career. There will be setbacks. You’ll face rejections. Some days, you’ll nail it; other days, you might want to crawl back to your old job. Stay the course. Persistence, paired with patience, is your best friend on this journey.

8. Reflection: Pause and Ponder

As you dive into this new chapter, take time to reflect regularly. Are you enjoying the journey? What’s working, and what’s not? This isn’t just about checking boxes off a career switch to-do list; it’s about building a fulfilling career that aligns with your passions and lifestyle.

Eric Kelly is a professional executive career and lifestyle coach with over forty years of experience in corporate America. He has established management development systems in the US, Europe, South America, Africa and the Middle East

Surfing the Corporate Waves: Embracing Change Without Losing Your Board Shorts

info@truedigitalmktg.com (True Digital) — Tue, 07 May 2024 16:34:27 GMT

Let’s face it, the only constant in the workplace is change, and dealing with it is about as pleasant as hearing, “We need to talk,” from your boss at 4:59 PM on a Friday. Change sweeps through the office more frequently than birthday celebrations, leaving us all scrambling to adjust. But here’s the kicker: survival in this ever-changing sea doesn’t come from swimming against the current—it comes from learning to surf those waves like a pro.

Imagine stepping into the office on a typical Monday. You’re ready with your warm beverage, your to-do list, and a faint hope of leaving on time. Suddenly, there’s a company-wide email announcing a major shift in management or a new software rollout that everyone must learn by, oh, yesterday. It feels a bit like showing up for a Halloween party only to find out it’s actually a Thanksgiving potluck. Surprise! Time to pivot. But here’s the secret: nobody likes ‘change’ except a wet baby, and even they cry through it. Yet, to keep your sanity amidst the chaos, you must embrace the art of surfing change. This doesn’t mean waxing your board and donning board shorts at the cubicle. Instead, it means adopting a mindset that change is not just inevitable but an opportunity to shine.

First, recognize that fighting change is like yelling at the waves to stop crashing—it’s futile and you’ll just end up with a mouthful of salt water. Instead, when change rolls in, paddle into it. Assess how these changes can actually benefit you. Can this new software streamline your work? Could a shift in management bring fresh, exciting projects? It’s all about perspective.

Maintain your sense of humor. Laughing in the face of change not only keeps morale high but also diffuses the stress that could otherwise spread like wildfire. Be the one to crack a joke when everyone else is groaning about the tenth “urgent” change this month. It’s like putting a little umbrella in everyone’s stormy day cocktail.

And let’s not forget the power of humble confidence. Stay confident in your ability to adapt, but humble enough to ask for help when needed. It’s okay to admit that you’re as baffled by the new policies as everyone else. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s an acknowledgment that you’re smart enough to learn from others.

So, as you face the next tidal wave of change, don’t strap on a life vest and cling to the nearest floating debris. Instead, grab your surfboard, paddle out, and show that you’re not just surviving the change—you’re enjoying the ride, tricky tides and all. Eric Kelly is a professional executive career and lifestyle coach with over forty years of experience in corporate America. He has established management development systems in the US, Europe, South America, Africa and the Middle East

Why Being a Work Superhero Might Just Be Your Best Career Move

info@truedigitalmktg.com (True Digital) — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 16:44:31 GMT

Hey there, office warriors! Today, let’s chat about why embracing more duties at your 9-to-5 might just be the golden ticket to that career wonderland you’ve been daydreaming about. Grab your capes, because we’re diving into the perks of being a workplace superhero!

1. Unmasking New Career Adventures

Think of your job like a video game. By leveling up with extra tasks, you’re not just flexing your professional muscles; you’re also flashing a neon sign to the bosses that says, “Hey, I’m ready for the next big quest!” This is your chance to be in the spotlight for promotions or, fingers crossed, a sweet pay bump. So, gear up and show ’em what you’ve got!

2. Powering Up the Team Dream

Now, let’s talk about being a team player. Offering to juggle a few more balls isn’t just about showing off your circus skills. It’s about helping your squad hit those home runs. Plus, when you lighten the load of your busy bee colleagues, you’re basically the office Santa Claus. Ho ho ho, productivity for everyone!

3. Skill-Building: The Workplace Workout

Here’s the fun part. Diving into a pool of new tasks is like going to the gym for your brain. Every new responsibility is a dumbbell for your skill set, sculpting you into a more versatile and valuable employee. So, let’s get mentally swole and ready to conquer new professional peaks!

4. Résumé Buffet: Serving Up Experience

Ah, the résumé – your career’s greatest hits album. By playing in different work arenas, you’re not just having fun; you’re also stacking your tracklist with some killer tunes (a.k.a. experiences). So, when it’s time to showcase your career playlist, you’ve got an impressive collection to flaunt!

5. Networking: The Office Safari

Lastly, let’s not forget the wild world of networking. Taking on fresh challenges can throw you into a safari of new colleagues. Ever wanted to brainstorm with Bob from accounting or strategize with Sally from sales? Well, expanding your responsibility horizon might just score you a seat at their table. In conclusion, my office comrades, loading up your work plate might just be the secret sauce to spicing up your career. It’s about opening doors, building bridges, and, most importantly, having a blast while you’re at it. So go ahead, be the workplace superhero you were meant to be – cape optional, but highly recommended!

Eric Kelly is a professional executive career and lifestyle coach with over thirty years of experience in corporate America. He has established leadership development systems in the US, Europe, South America, Africa, and the Middle East