Michelle V. Rafter from the SecondAct blog wrote a great article about using Pinterest to get a job. See the 10 tips below….

You might think of Pinterest as another way to kill time online when you should be doing something more important. Millions of early adopters put the 2-year-old social network on the map doing just that — sharing pictures of cute outfits, cool home interiors and exotic travel destinations.

Now that 11.7 million people and companies are using it, though, Pinterest is emerging as an online tool that job seekers can use to market themselves and explore potential careers, industries and employers.

Pinterest lets you save photos or images from news stories, blog posts or other online content in the form of pins that are organized into folders called boards. You can follow other people and re-pin, comment or “Like” their pins. You also can link your Pinterest boards to your accounts on Facebook or Twitter.

“If you’re in a creative or design field, it’s an amazing place to build a portfolio or create a visual resume,” says Annie Favreau, managing editor at InsideJobs.com, a career exploration website.

Here’s how to use Pinterest for a job search:

1. Optimize your Pinterest profile. Adjust account settings to allow your profile to appear in results of searches on Google and other search engines. Load your profile description with keywords that match the job you want. Include a recent photograph and links to your website or LinkedIn profile so potential employers can learn more about you. Here’s one example of a Pinterest resume, from a Harvard Business School student who hopes it’ll lead to a job with the online network.

2. Set up an online resume and portfolio. Gather samples of your work onto one or more boards to use as an online resume. Don’t get cute with labels; call your resume board “My Resume” or something similar so it’s easy to find. Pinterest is especially useful if you work in photography, architecture, interior design or other creative fields, “because it has this strong emphasis on the visuals. It’s one more access point into your work,” Favreau says. But anyone can use the site to create an online portfolio. Just make sure that the resume or portfolio you’re linking back to has an image you can pin. This San Francisco Chronicle story shares how one Bay Area marketing manager uses Pinterest to showcase his current and previous jobs.

3. Dedicate a board to careers you’re curious about. If you’re searching for your next act, use Pinterest to find information on jobs or careers. Use the search box — located in the upper left-hand corner of the site’s front page — to enter related words or phrases. Pin anything that comes up that you want to save for future reference.

4. Create boards for companies or industries you’d like to know better. Pinterest can give you a glimpse into a company’s culture that you can’t get from reading their “About Us” page, Favreau says. “If they’re sharing Instagram pictures of their office, you won’t find that a whole lot of other places,” she says.

5. Follow experts. Keep up with employment trends by following the university career centers, jobs websites, outplacement specialists and career coaches that have set up shop on Pinterest. SecondAct has a board dedicated to all things work-related called Get a Job. I’ve also created a Job Hunting and Careers board with pointers to my stories here and other resources. Favreau also recommends following Career Bliss, BrazenCareerist, and Lea McLeod, a Portland, Ore., career expert who works with midcareer and other professionals.

6. Leave comments. Strike up a conversation with a career expert or someone who works in a field you’re interested in by commenting on one of their pins. As with any other type of online or real-world networking, you never know where it could lead.

7. Wander around. Do some browsing to see what’s out there. “If you’re constantly coming back to the same area, or something keeps popping out at you, if might be worth exploring” as a career option, Favreau says. She also recommends using the site as a mental boost for your job-hunting efforts, and created a Career Inspirations board for that reason.

8. Protect your work. If you’re sharing photography or other original work on your boards, use watermarks to protect individual images just as you would when displaying them on other websites. You want your work to be out there, but it pays to be on your guard, Favreau says.

9. Be professional. If all you do on Pinterest is share pictures of puppies, think twice about sharing your Pinterest profile with potential employers. “But if you are using it for a job search, it is an impression of who you are, so when you’re creating your boards, make sure they line up with your professional appearance,” she says.

10. Watch out for spammers. The bigger Pinterest grows, the more spammers it’s attracting. To prevent unwittingly passing along spam disguised as a normal pin, be sure to click through on images to see where they lead before re-pinning them. Don’t click on pins that look like ads or giveaways, which Pinterest doesn’t offer or condone. Here’s what else you can to do to avoid Pinterest spammers.

A final word about Pinterest: It can be extremely habit-forming. “I set myself to short periods of time, like 15 minutes, because although it can be an amazing tool, it’s also a distraction,” Favreau says. “It’s so easy to [lose track of time] it’s kind of shocking.”

Have you used Pinterest in your job search? If so, please share with us how you used it to market yourself?

SecondAct contributor Michelle V. Rafter writes about business and workplace issues for a variety of national publications. She is based in Portland, Oregon.

Have you ever thought about working independently or freelancing?  See what Samantha R. Else has to say about preparing for this new style of work. You can also find it on her blog post, Samantha in Rantings at http://bit.ly/PKVuAK

How to Prepare for the Career You Didn’t Know You Were Going to Have…

Welcome to the “gig” economy. More and more employers are hiring contractors, temps and freelancers. The idea of job security in the common sense no longer exists! So what can we, as the technically speaking self-employed, do in order to keep ourselves on our toes?! Lifelong learning! Here are 15 things to do on your own time to keep yourself and your career moving forward.

1. Always have a book. It doesn’t have to be on you at all times, and it doesn’t have to be about your work… but you should be reading as much as possible. It will strengthen your vocabulary and broaden your knowledge base… Yes, this includes The Hunger Games, it doesn’t matter as long as you are reading something.
2. Keep a “to learn” list. You’ve heard of the “to do” list, maybe even the “to read” list… Keep one that lists out the different things you want to learn, and work to check them off the list.
3. Get more intellectual friends. Spend a few hours each week with people who will stimulate you intellectually or challenge you to learn and grow.
4. Guided thinking. Don’t just learn, think! Once you’ve finished your reading for the day or have just learned something new, take the time to actually think about it. Allow the new information to settle in and form thoughts/opinions/ideas based around it.
5. Put it into practice.If you have a skill, use it. What is the point of learning the piano, if you are never going to play? If you list the skill on your resume, make sure it is something you can do on the spot if asked.
6. Teach others. Not only will you be helping someone else develop a skill or learn about something, but it will help show holes in your knowledge.
7. Clean your input. Do your own research!
8. Learn in groups. This will allow you to bounce ideas off of others, etc.
9. Unlearn assumptions. Don’t approach topics or skills with any built in assumptions, walk in with a clean slate and learn from the ground up.
10. Find jobs that encourage learning. Be challenged! Don’t settle for the job that does not offer a ladder to climb or new skill sets to be learned.
11. Start a project. And finish it!
12. Follow your intuition. About what job to take, what new skill set to learn, what current skill set to develop, etc. You will know what is right for you and when.
13. The morning 15. Spend the first 15 minutes of your morning accomplishing something off of your “to learn” list. If you postpone it you are more likely to never do it.
14. Reap the rewards. Enjoy it!
15. Make it a priority.

Do you feel prepared for this new style of work?  We would like to hear your thoughts?

Michelle V. Rafter from SecondAct blog wrote a great article about workplace trends to watch and we would like to share it with you. So here it is…

The old saying that the only constant is change aptly describes the American workplace in 2012.

You may be in the same position at the same place you’ve worked for years. But the economy, technology and demographics are transforming how you get your job done.

In: telecommuting, more flexible hours and using your own laptop or smartphone for work. Out: commuting, 9-to-5 schedules and standard-issue office computers.

Here’s more on those and other changes that could be coming to your workplace:

1. Mobile devices.

More employees are using their own iPhones, iPads and other portable electronics for work instead of company-issued computers or laptops, a trend sometimes called “bring your own device” or BYOD. Some companies worry about how they’ll keep confidential information safe and workers on task and not on Facebook or playing Words With Friends. But that won’t stop the move toward fewer restrictions, not just on what devices employees use but also on how, when and where they use them, according to workplace experts.

2. Telecommuting.

Companies are offering telecommuting as a way to give employees more flexible schedules and in some cases make up for not offering bigger raises, but also to curb office space expenses. Among the biggest telecommuting advocates are boomers, says Kate Lister, a telecommuting researcher at the San Diego-based Telework Research Network. “The majority of boomers are at or near the highest rung of the corporate ladder they’re likely to achieve,” she says. “The raises, promotions and accolades that once motivated them have been replaced with thoughts of retirement, aging parents, mortality and ‘What do I really want out of life?’ AARP research shows 70 percent want to continue to work, but they want to do it on their terms.”

3. Open office spaces.

With fewer employees coming into the office, companies are reconfiguring floor plans to devote more square footage to communal areas and less to traditional, walled work spaces. Some have remodeled entire floors to include shared workstations and group areas for impromptu brainstorming or conference sessions. Employees who aren’t around every day may get lockers to stash personal items during office hours.

4. Instant communication.

Employees increasingly view email as an inefficient form of communication that moves at a snail’s pace compared to text messages, social networks and other alternatives. “Email is quickly going the way of the fax machine,” says Robin Richards, CEO and chairman of TweetMyJobs, a Twitter-based job service. “Just watch your [city's] mayor. I’m watching every week, and more and more mayors are beginning to communicate via social networks and texting. It’s the only way their employees communicate with each other.”

5. Online collaboration tools.

More companies are using web-based software, rather than email, to communicate with telecommuters and mobile workers. Some companies now use programs such as Yammer, Chatter and Jive to create private, Facebook-style networks that managers and employees can use to exchange messages or documents. Video- and web-based conferencing is here to stay too, workplace experts say. Employees need to know how to use it all, regardless of where they work.

6. Web-based software.

Employers are following consumers by using more web-based or “cloud” computing, including not just collaboration tools but also other web-based software in day-to-day operations. Those applications include: web-based portals employees can use to check on their health insurance or 401(k) investments, and recruiting apps that let employees share job openings with friends on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter. Similar apps let companies post open positions directly on social networks where job hunters can find them.

7. Reverse mentoring.

Along with traditional mentoring programs, some businesses are establishing reverse mentoring arrangements where younger workers do the teaching, helping older workers master software, social media and other modern workplace skills.

8. Independent contractors.

It’s the age of the free agent, and not just in sports. More people are working as independent contractors, not because they can’t find permanent full-time corporate positions but because they want to. OpenDesks, a startup service that matches co-working facilities with companies and individuals, has only a handful of full-time employees, and also contracts with workers in Montreal, New York, and Sydney, Australia. “We tried to recruit one of our part-time team members to a full-time equity position. She wants to be part of the team but remain independent,” says OpenDesks CEO Chris DiFonzo. “The organization has fundamentally changed. I’m not certain what this means for management and hiring long term, but I’m 100 percent convinced this is a permanent change.”

9. Co-working spaces.

Whether they’re independent contractors or full-time employees, more home-based workers are checking out co-working spaces, where they can find a desk for a few hours, often at minimal expense, plus conference rooms, internet connections and other standard office amenities. Worldwide, the number of co-working spaces is mushrooming. DiFonzo says OpenDesks expects to have 1,500 locations in 750 cities and 100 countries in its database by the end of January. One side benefit of sharing: The person you sit next to could become a sounding board for product ideas, or better yet, a business partner, supplier or investor, DiFonzo says.

10. Corporate culture initiatives.

A decent salary and benefits are no longer enough to attract or keep valuable employees. For that, companies are investing in initiatives that speak to the passions and practices of workers of all ages. Those initiatives include going green or producing products in a more socially responsible manner to allowing employees time off to perform community service work. Comcast, for example, participates in Facebook charity fundraising drives and sponsors an annual community service day where tens of thousands of employees and their families plant gardens and perform other volunteer work at locations around the country.

Have you noticed any of these trends happening in your workplace? If not, are you ready for these trends? Please share your thoughts.

SecondAct contributor Michelle V. Rafter writes about business and workplace issues for a variety of national publications. She is based in Portland, Oregon.

Staying competitive and managing your career can be difficult in a challenging economy.  To thrive and be viable, you must know your skills, strengths, capabilities as well as areas of development.  Make it a habit to seek out opportunities to enhance your knowledge and performance. Here are 8 strategies that can help you succeed in your career.

Be Flexible. Flexibility is a valued and necessary trait to have if you want to thrive in our constantly changing workplace. Technology, the economy and demographic changes in our workforce have transformed how we work. Be open to new concepts and adaptable to change. The more readily you can adapt to your environment, the easier it is to stay competitive.

Recognize your accomplishments. Be an advocate for yourself.  Document how the organization has benefited from your performance.  What tangible evidence do you have of your achievements? Are you the key person that your boss or team turns too when something needs to get done?  Know your value.

Be an innovator.  Propose ideas that improve systems to make the workplace more efficient.  Learn how to integrate practical concepts that addresses and solves problems. When was the last time that you made a significant contribution to your organization?

Be Proactive.  Don’t be passive. Take control of your career and don’t be obsolete.  You are responsible for managing your own career path and direction. Prepare to assume new projects, skills and knowledge to make you relevant. Develop a unique talent that it not easily replaced.  Stay current of trends by reading journals and resources related to your profession.

Maintain Your Network.  Connections are critical.  Keep in touch with your network periodically. Seek out experts and key players who can support you in your career.  Having connections makes it easier when looking for better opportunities.   You never know when you will need to rely upon them in the future.

Be Global Minded. Learn how to develop relationships with diverse groups. Broaden your perspective by being open to ideas different from your own. Seek to understand and be drawn from your comfort zone.

Join a Professional Organization.  It’s a great way to establish new networks and exchange business ideas with like-minded professionals. You can also gain a better understanding of future growth areas in your industry.

Keep Your Resume Current.  Update your resume regularly.  You never know when you might need to submit it. Include significant achievements, new projects and other relevant information to make you stand out.

To have career sustainability, you will need to be accountable for your own career and be prepared for sudden changes in your workplace and industry. The more prepared you are, the quicker you are to respond to the demands of the workforce. 

Do you have career sustainability? Let us know how you are thriving in our current market.

Marian Moore, Career Development Coordinator/Career Counselor in Career Services at OSU is passionate about empowering others holistically to find meaningful and sustainable careers that promote lifestyle optimization. Interests: Career Coaching, Talent and Human Capital Management, Curriculum Design and Development, International Education, Personal Branding, Organizational Development, Entrepreneurship, Global Economic Development, Human Rights and Immigrant and Refugee advocacy.

Where does passion come from?  It starts with having sense of meaning and purpose in what you do.  It’s an exciting feeling that stimulates and motivates you.  It is a part of you and should not be separate from your career.  For example, if you enjoy helping people and it fulfills you, then find a career that allows you to help others. Below are things that you can do to transform your passion into a meaningful career.

Be authentic. The source of your personal success and overall well-being comes from within. Be able to identify your talents, strengths and abilities as well as your limitations and embrace them.  Know who you are and be honest with yourself.  Focus on things that come naturally to you.

Have a Purpose.  What is your purpose? Give yourself time to examine what it is. It’s not an easy question to answer. For many, it requires deep reflection and thought. To have purpose is to know what matters to you in the world and your life. It must fulfill you and evoke emotions that excite you.  Identify things that you like to read, talk about and do. When you have a purpose, it adds more meaning to your life. Once you know what it is, you can be useful to others and can apply your talents, knowledge and skills.

Use your Values as Guide. Examine what your core values are and let it direct your path. Once you’ve determined your most significant values, determine how they fit with your goals, aspirations and lifestyle. Do they align with your purpose? For example, if you determined that work-life balance is an important value, think about careers that support that value.

Create Goals that are Impactful. Develop a positive mindset of achieving your goals. Start thinking about things that you can do now and write them down. Take action and be accountable to yourself.   This helps reinforce your goal and to achieve them much quicker. Create a visual picture of your ideal job/career. Write down the duties, tasks, and responsibilities that you enjoy doing. Envision the environment, office, location and other qualities that you look for in your ideal work setting.

Designing Your Future. Live a purpose driven life. Know how your skills, knowledge and talents can make an impact. Seek opportunities where you can contribute your qualities to others and in a way that ignites your passion.

Knowing what you are passionate about is important. When you know what you want, it is much easier to obtain it and your pursuits become more meaningful.

What are you passionate about? We would love to hear your thoughts.

Marian Moore, Career Development Coordinator/Career Counselor in Career Services at OSU is passionate about empowering others holistically to find meaningful and sustainable careers that promote lifestyle optimization. Interests: Career Coaching, Talent and Human Capital Management, Curriculum Design and Development, International Education, Personal Branding, Organizational Development, Entrepreneurship, Global Economic Development, Human Rights and Immigrant and Refugee advocacy.

It takes more than starting a business to be an entrepreneur.  It requires drive and initiative to develop a product or service. Below are 8 strategies you should consider before pursuing a path of entrepreneurship.

Strategy 1: Being Self-Aware

Know yourself! Being aware of your strengths, abilities, personality characteristics and limitations allows you to leverage them in all situations.

Strategy 2: Believing in Yourself

Trust your abilities and talent. To be taken seriously as an entrepreneur, you must believe in yourself and have confidence. Convey an entrepreneurial mindset demonstrate your business acumen.

Strategy 3: Finding Your Niche

Be an active listener and pay attention to your market. Learn about what your target audience wants and develop solutions to address their problems.

Strategy 4: Turning Failure into Opportunity

Don’t fear failure. Evaluate the failure, learn from it and move forward. Use it as a guide to help you re-examine your purpose.

Strategy 5: Creating Connections Among other Entrepreneurs.

Develop a support system with other like minded people. Surround yourself with entrepreneurs who share your passion and interests.

Strategy 6: Being Committed to Your Passion

Enjoy what you do. Passion is what makes your actions and purpose more meaningful.  You are more committed to your goals when you have a purpose.

Strategy 7: Continuing to Reinvent Your Idea

Be a lifelong learner and find efficient ways to improve your product or service.

Strategy 8: Establishing Yourself as a Leader

Be a pioneer and use your creativity and innovation to make an imprint on society.

I hope that you found these tips helpful and can apply them to your own strategy for success.  Best of luck!

What advice would you give an aspiring entrepreneur?

Marian Moore, Career Development Coordinator/Career Counselor in Career Services at OSU is passionate about empowering others holistically to find meaningful and sustainable careers that promote lifestyle optimization. Interests: Career Coaching, Talent and Human Capital Management, Curriculum Design and Development, International Education, Personal Branding, Organizational Development, Entrepreneurship, Global Economic Development, Human Rights and Immigrant and Refugee advocacy.