Bang Resume Works

#busygirlSuper excited to announce that I'll be hosting a storytelling workshop tomorrow at 11am (EST) with the HerVana Co-Working Collective. Peep the link in bio for more information and to register. Looking forward to seeing and connecting with you all!... + + + + Are you inspired by all the stories of entrepreneurs overcoming MASSIVE obstacles but think "ugh I don't have anything interesting to share?" STOP. We ALL have something to talk about that can engage, inspire or impress people. Yes, you have a unique story to tell. As a resume strategist, Joanne M. Brathwaite, founder of @bangresumeworksca takes resumes from ho-hum to "hire me!" by revising and refining the story of their work history and positioning them in their best professional light. Join us Thursday as Joanne provides us with tips to tell a story that compels prospective clients to take action on everything from following us on social media to buying our products or services. We're excited for the opportunity for Joanne to lead us through the how to's of creating a narrative for your business that gets clients to take notice, and take action. #storytelling #womenhelpingwomen #workshop #hervana #bangresumeworks #BRW

Black people are unnecessarily policed and scrutinized at work. They also understand that they need to be "twice as good to get half as far." In this Twitter thread, one white man shares his experience and newfound understanding of how difficult it is to be "working while black."

Many of you already know I'm a pretty big advocate for mental health, particularly for Black women/people in the Black and Caribbean communities. Today is a pretty exciting day for me, as I'm going to be talking with an old friend of mine, Erin Kimberly. She's the founder of The Joy Tribe Co., an amazing initiative dedicated to helping people find support and joy as they navigate their personal struggles. During our Instagram Live chat, I'll be sharing the story of my own men...tal health issues, and how I've dealt with and found my way through it all (still navigating; it's been a hell of a journey). I may laugh, I may cry, but I'm so honoured that I get to share my story with you. It's all just a sneak preview of what's to come at the Soul Sessions on Sunday June 28th. Yours truly will also be one of the session's featured speakers at the virtual event. Tickets are available through Eventbrite, and $5 of each ticket sale will be donated to "Black Mental Health MattersA Fund For Black Led Therapists." I'm a little nervous, but I'm also looking forward to seeing you all there! Find tickets and info for next Sunday's event here: https://bit.ly/3hHJmCg #mentalhealthmatters #blacklivesmatter #inclusionmatters

Have you been recently laid off or are you in the midst of a job hunt? Even if you're working remotely for the time being, no doubt youve been feeling a lot of uncertainty or anxiety around what COVID-19 might mean for the future of your job. The good news is that many companies are hiring for remote and in-house positions during this timeand they need to fill essential roles more than ever.... From logistics to technology-based roles, to customer service and production, there are a variety positions and opportunities available in almost every industrynot only in the grocery and healthcare spaces (although youll find a number of roles in these sectors, too). The editors at LinkedIn recently provided a list of 20 companies that are currently hiring. Check the link to see the full list of companies and open positions. So dust off your resumebecause nows the time to apply. If you need a new resume, or would like some constructive feedback on your current CV, Bang! Resume Works offers weekly resume reviews, free of charge. DM for details. #nowhiring #helpwanted #toronto #bangresumeworks #BRW https://bit.ly/BRWhiring

I've been MIA, I know. Had to take a pause for the mental health cause. But I'm slowly bringing myself backon a Friday, no less. And I like to post a little funny on Fridays, so in spirit of #nationalhaikuday, here are a few chuckle-worthy poems about the realities of work in these crazy times.... Which one's your favourite? #workingfromhome #newnormal #bangresumeworks #BRW

Good morning! This is an oldie but goodieand so relevant right now. Hands up if you're already tired of Zoom meetings?! #zoom #teleconferencing #bangresumeworks #BRW

In stressful times, some people use staying productive as a means of coping. Others find it difficult to stay on-track when times get tough. I know that I've been up and down with my own productivity, but at the end of the day, I've been keeping busy to help keep myself sane. I will be the FIRST to admit that at times it feels as though I've got a whole damn lot to juggle, and even I'm amazed on the days I manage to keep it together and get shit done. Thing is, there's no ri...ght or wrong way to cope with what's happening in the world right now, but if you're having trouble focusing, and you'd like some help getting sorted, I've got a FREE virtual session that just might be for you. Join me, and digital marketing pro Tedi Bezna, this upcoming Tuesday April 7th, as we give you helpful ways to tackle your to-do's and find your balance in unbalanced times. Reserve your spot here: https://bit.ly/2xR55oQ I'm looking forward to talking to and seeing you all on Tuesday! #womenhelpingwomen #bangresumeworks #BRW

Ordinarily, Aprils arrival is THE signal that spring is here. These are not ordinary times, though. We just got news that our city's quarantine may be extended for as long as another 12 weeks. Ive been musing for a while that we may as well just cancel summer of 2020and today it seems that its happening. Le sigh.... Ive talked about my struggles with anxiety and depression, but these past few weeks have left me feeling surprisingly neutral. This is so far beyond my control that to panic or break down seems like the most futile thing I could do right now. This is not to say that feeling the way I do is somehow better than how another might deal with our current reality. The fact of the matter is, there isnt any right way to feel right now. So this is why Im checking in with everyone: How are you all doing? How are you today? How are you coping? Is there anything I can do to help? Please feel free to reach out if you need to chat, or if you need help/a hand. Ive not been feeling the most productive, but I know that staying busy is a good distraction for me. I dont even know what I can offer right now, but I do know that more than ever, we need to feel connected and we all need to feel not-so-alone. Here for you. #reachingout #mentalhealth #helpeachother #BRW

#confession I'd had a post about motivation and productivity planned for today, but to be honest, as the news grew more and more dire, I felt my own productivity waning. As someone who lives with anxiety, I've found myself feeling surprisingly un-anxious. This is not to say I'm apathetic; but right now things are so far beyond my control that to let my anxiety get the better of me seems futile.... I don't want to contribute to the noise and despair, but I felt the need to put some thoughts into the ether. I'm appealing to my various social communities to see how we can support each other right now. What to do? How to cope? What are you doing to find solace in the face of uncertainty? I'd love to hear from you. #quarantine #mentalhealth #wellness #coping #bangresumeworks

So youve suddenly found yourself using the dining room as a makeshift office, dressed in sweats, hand sanitizer on-deck, alternately foraging through the fridge for snacks and flipping through daytime talk shows. Your company has mandated that all employees telecommute until further notice. Welcome to the world of working from home. Guess what? Youre one of us now.... For some, this is predictions of the future (and a dream) come true: the death of the daily commute. Quarantined and mandated remote employees are getting a glimpse of what may very well become the new normal: work-from-home life. For those who are already dedicated #WFH, this is business as usual. But for those whose duties are dependent on interfacing with clients/public or even other co-workers, what can they do to adapt? What do they need to know about being a virtual employee? #workfromhome #remotework #telework #pandemic #goodadvice #bangresumeworks

In light of news of the current coronavirus pandemic, as a safety precaution, more and more companies are limiting in-person interviews or cutting back on them altogether. So if you were scheduled to have an in-person interview that has now been relegated to a video conference format like Skype or Zoom, what should you know beforehand? How should you prepare? To help you feel more at ease and more relaxed, here are some things you need to know before going live:... #goodadvice #interviews #remote #successtips #bangresumeworks

Yes, sis. Youve put the finishing touches on your FIRE resume and kick ass cover letter, and now youre getting ready to savebut before you do, Ive got some questions: What file type did you use? What did you name it? How are you going to send it? #bangresumeworks #filetypes #resumes #successtips #goodadvice

When you find yourself comparing your B-Roll to someone elses highlight reel, remember that we all define success differently. And while no two paths to success are ever the same, a positive mindset makes all the difference how and when you reap the rewards. Need some inspo? I got you! Here are seven things you need to remember before succumbing to the comparison curse:... #envy #success #mindset #gratitude #bangresumeworks

If Im not writing my own blogs or social posts, Im often drafting all manner of written material for clientsfrom articles and ad copy to press releases and white papers (and yes, resumes). I come across so many people who claim they cant write, and I tell them, sure you can. I get that its easier for some people to speak their thoughts, while others articulate better on paper (I tend to be the latter). ... However, good writing skills only serve to improve your spoken abilities; the better your writing, the more powerful your communicationand the more people want to listen to what you have to say. Being a proficient writer also helps you in the workplace, where most employers place a premium on communication. Its one of the most sought-after soft skills, and the better your writing/verbal abilities, the better your chances for promotion. So, if you find the task of putting pen to paper truly daunting, what is THE one thing you can do (besides practice, natch) to improve your writing skills and also make it suck less?

How has your week been? Hows 2020 been treating you thus far? Im gonna be honest for a moment and say that Im already over this year (heh). And while Ive been busier than Ive been for a long time, and while I enjoy the bustle that comes with running my lil business and coming out with new content and ideasa girl has to take a step back.... On Instagram, Ive alluded to how stressed Ive been lately, and its been taking a real toll on my energy and mood. No, Im not quitting, nor am I putting things on-hold. Like I said, Im just taking a step back. But what does that mean?

Have you ever turned down a job offer? I have. Twice. It wasnt even because I didnt need the work, or that the positions didnt sound right. In one case, it was just that accepting didnt feel right. And in the second instance, I realized, being one of two candidates remaining after an intense three-round interview process, that the job was going to take over my lifeand the salary wasnt nearly enough to justify the encroachment. When a company has pulled out all the stops... to woo you (a phase I call Party Manners Mode, where everyone is on their best behaviour, and you dont get to see what a company is really like), it can be difficult to judge what youre about to sign on for. And if you get an offer, but you feel uncertain, in the absence of obvious red flags, what should you do before accepting?

When I was a new to freelance, if I didnt have a steady, long-term contract, I made sure that I was always on top of my hustle. When it came time to look for work, I wasnt picky about how I earned my money, because hustling (to me) meant finding the simplest or most creative legit way to pay my bills. But to the recruiters and hiring managers viewing my resume, back then, my hustle was a bad thing.... They took my checkered work history and industry hopping to mean I was a flight riska flake. My reality couldnt have been further from the truth. I was desperate for something full-time and stable with regular hours and benefits. My, how times have changed. In these days of an uncertain and often fragmented work future, a hustle or side gig is almost a necessary evil if you want to be able to afford to eat and pay the bills. And in todays reality, a job-hopper such as myself would have what is now considered a portfolio careera term that has multiple definitions in the gig economy. #portfoliocareer #jobsearching #multipotentialite #worklife

Today while brainstorming ideas for the blog, I found inspiration from an unexpected source: my five-year-old daughter, Aisha. You see, my daughter has Down Syndrome, and Ive always admired the way shes overcome the challenges and obstacles that accompany her condition with humour and pluck. As she triumphs daily, Ive come to realize that her success is mainly due to an unstoppable mindset; she thinks, therefore, she does. ... The other day, I was watching as she practiced her fine motor skills (threading a pipe cleaner with beads). She looked up and caught me in mid-stare. I winked at her, and she gave me a big smile and wink in return before going back to her activity. Oh, my heart. That small exchange got me thinking about how she wows me daily and came up with a long list of qualities; and realized that her most impressive traits are those that anyone could use to help them do better, be better and totally #winatwork. #mindset #motivation #successtips #softskills #bangresumeworks

I know how hard it can be to stay motivated to start a job search after youve been let go. I understand the feelings of unworthiness, self-doubt and loneliness that unemployment can bring. Fortunately, Ive been lucky enough to have a supportive partner in my corner, cheering me on to help keep me motivated and in good spirits. It can be tough to stay positive when the rest of the world carries on with their daily grinds. If you find yourself playing the role of support pers...on after your Plus One has lost their job, what can you do to help? Here are a few tips on how to be a sweetie to your sweetie during a period of unemployment. #support #unemployment #bangresumeworks #brw

#ontheblogDo you ever get wind of another persons new opportunitybe it a job, romance or windfall, and think, theyre so lucky? We often think of luck as something that is random, when in fact, the opposite couldnt be more true. Oprah said it best: I believe luck is preparation meeting opportunity. If you hadnt been prepared when the opportunity came along, you wouldnt have been lucky.... So do you think of yourself as lucky or unlucky? In his book, The Luck Factor: The Scientific Study of the Lucky Mind, Dr. Richard Wiseman set out to find out how and if people considered themselves un/lucky, and why. #mindset #motivation #happiness #success #opportunity #bangresumeworks #brw

#soyeah#2019in November, I worked through a longstanding fear, squashed negative self-talk and smashed a personal goal: public speaking. I conducted my first-ever #workshop, and, contrary to what I thought might happen, I got up in front of people, got through an entire presentation, and I did not die. I got through it NOT because I suddenly found stores of bravery; I was nervous the entire time and when I got home I CRIED from the relief that it was all over.... I got through it because I found a little hack that helped me overcome my anxiety, helped me trade perfectionism for productivity, and just get the damn thing done. But enough about me. If youre like most people, youve probably started your #2020 with the best of intentions, and set some goals, wrote some to-dos and made some kick-ass resolutions for the #NewYear. And if youre anything like me, you might already be procrastinating on the start date (its back to work, the kids are back to school and holy moly, are you ever tired), but youll #fosho tackle those goals next week. Well, what if I told you theres a way to get more clarity from your goals? That theres something you can do to help you get over your fear of failure, trade procrastination for action, and finally get sh*t done? I mentioned earlier that theres an easy-peasy solution I use daily that helps me focus, gets me motivated and in gear to finish what I've started, and Id love to share it with you. From something as simple as getting through daily chores, to something more challenging like getting writing a book, this little hack might help you get unstuck, too. It might help you #GetAGRIP. It helped these ladies. Wanna know more? Details Monday #successtips #letsdothis #goals #brw

#backtoreality If you're one of the many people back to work after time off for the holidays, it's likely you're not entirely thrilled at the idea of getting back to the grind. Even if you love your job, the return to routine can feel like a rude awakening after a week or more spent in out-of-office mode. So to combat the post-holiday hangover, these tips can help lessen the blow on your first day back, and get you through the first full week of work:... See the full list of tips here: http://bit.ly/BRWbk2wk Most importantly, be kind to yourself. You'll probably lose some steam toward mid-day. And that's perfectly all right. After a day full of meetings, catch-ups, phone calls, memos and new deadlines, it's natural to feel overwhelmed. Don't beat yourself up for not getting to all your to-dos. You did what you could. And remember, there's always tomorrow. . . . #backtowork #motivationmondays #officelife #worklife #bangresumeworks #brw

#tiptuesdayI've had a few jobs where I was required to work through Christmas and New Year's. It didn't bother me much; I was young, childless, and was swayed by the opportunity to earn the extra cash/overtime. Plus, I enjoyed the quiet and spent most of my shifts watching YouTube videos, readingand yes, I may have caught a few minutes of shut-eye #dontjudgeme Most people would rather be anywhere than at work for the holidays. If you find yourself at your desk instead of wi...th friends and family, I've got a tip or two that might help you get through the #workingfortheholidays blues: http://bit.ly/BRWhols911 #goodadvice #bangresumeworks #BRW

Whether heading for sunny climes or taking a few days off to recharge, there are always a few loose ends to tie up before heading out for the holidays. If youre like me and need a quick reminder (because my mind has basically turned to tinsel), heres a pre-vacation checklist to ensure youve CYA. 1. Let your co-workers know youll be away, and for how long. It may seem obvious, but with everyones mind elsewhere right now, the question wheres so-and-so?" becomes a common ...refrain. 2. Set your out-of-office autoresponders. A succinct and polite message informing callers youll be away, your expected return and your backup contact will help everyone in your absence. 3. Clean out your desk/fridge. Its amazing how quickly that tangerine on your desk can turn into a forest of fungus. Be sure to dispose of all perishables before you head out. 4. Try not to feel guiltybut don't gloat. It's natural to feel bad for taking time off or leaving colleagues when there still may be work left to do, or you know that others dont have the luxury of time off. Leave and give everyone genuine holiday greetings; your seemingly harmless see you later, suckers! might grate on co-workers nerves. Remember: tis the season to be jollybut also kind. #worklife #office #bangresumeworks #brw

#countingdownIt's the last Friday before Christmas, and I've crossed off my to-do's and finished all my shopping. That means I'm pretty much out of commish until after New Year's Day. Enjoy the weekend, kids! If you haven't finished your shopping yet, may you find everything you're looking forincluding your sanity, parking spaces, and great deals. ... #happyholidays #FriYay #outofoffice #bye #bangresumeworks #BRW #

I'm always surprised when clients tell me they don't have/use LinkedIn. I suspect that for some, the reticence is driven by fear or privacy concerns, but the bulk of the clients say they don't see any use for it. So I tell them that my last two FT roles came via LinkedInreferrals from an old colleague and former intern with whom I'd kept in touch over the years.... I'm currently revamping the resume for a client who just landed a second interview with a Global media company. I teased her that she didn't even need my services, since she clearly got there on the strength of her resume and interview prowess. "I got a referral through someone I knew as a kid," she explained. "We reconnected via Linkedin and built a relationship. "A few weeks ago she told me she knows someone looking to fill a role, and asked if I was interested. Of course I said yes! She put in a good word for me, and now here I am." And here she is. I know there are people currently using LinkedIn who still don't see its value, so I post this as a small reminder that making and building good connections could lead to your next big opportunity. 'Cos as the old saying goes, "it's not what you know, but who." #networking #connections #relationships #jobhunting #LinkedIn #bangresumeworks #BRW

It's the last week before the holidays officially begin, and you feel like you're just going through the motions of working, as you count down the days until you're off. And its not only your mind that's elsewhere; it seems as though your get-up-and-go, got up and left. You've been carbo-loading to keep your energy up, but can feel yourself crashing just after lunch. So how do you keep your spirits bright and your eyes open during the office holiday season? ... The easiest way is to limit your sugar intake. Because while its entirely possible to scarf down a whole box of mini candy canes, too much sugar at once can lead to an energetic high followed by a giant crash. When your sweet tooth acts up, try combining the sweet stuff with protein or other high-fat or high-fibre foods to slow the release of the sugar into the bloodstream. And avoid binging, which can leave you feeling sluggish. The caffeine in both coffee and chocolate are excellent pick-me-up options, but it's always best to enjoy the season's sweet treats in small doses. And bang! There you have it. Enjoy the best of the season's sweet treats and avoid the post-sugar crash by keeping portions small and combining sweets with protein or fibre to prevent sluggishness. How do you avoid the confectionery crash-and-burn? #holidays #worklife #goodadvice #healthy #bangresumeworks #BRW

#shoutout to all the career crusaders. May your coffee be strong, your patience long, and your Monday short. . . . .... . . . . . . #motivation #monday #message #worklife #office #thegrind #thehustle #holidays #countdown #looseends #wrappingup #working #career #womenhelpingwomen #shotatsuccess #bangresumeworks #brw See more

#worklife I had a computer virus earlier todayfitting, given that today's post is all about (not) using your work computer for personal matters. And let's face it, we've all done it. We all do it. Whether it's browsing for deals (#christmasshopping) at lunch or just doing some banking in your downtime. It all seems innocuous, but the implications that come with using your work computer for anything other than work are huge. ... Want to know if you're putting yourself (and your company) at risk? Click for the full scoop: http://bit.ly/BRWworkPC #work #HR #bangresumeworks #BRW

#didyouknowAccording to a 2019 Bureau of Labor Statistics (US) report, women are more likely to change jobs and careers than men, with an average of 11 transitions. A lot of my clients are in the process of/considering a career transition. Some are looking to change industries or careers entirely, while others are in the midst of what is called a career pivot. http://bit.ly/BRWpivot #whatsa #careerpivot #bangresumeworks #BRW

I was on Twitter the other day when I came across an inspiring and noteworthy tweet from 8x Grammy-nominated singer Lizzo. _ It was a response to another singer who wondered what she went through before she made it (and thanked her for not giving up on her dreams). Lizzo wrote: _ "8 years of touring, giving out free tix to my undersold shows, sleepless nights in my car, losing my dad & giving up on music, playing shows for free beer & food w/ -$32 in my bank account, constan...tly writing songs, hearing 'no' but always saying 'yes.' Glad I never gave up." _ A couple of days later, I read a similar post from motivational speaker Jay Shetty, in which he shared the many times he'd been rejected before finding global success. You can read his post, and the full story here: http://bit.ly/2qToIcU #realtalk #motivation #support #bangresumeworks #BRW

#soEven if they're not actively looking, most people still think about finding a job in the New Year. _ But here's the thing: if you're planning on looking for next year, NOW is the time to start updating your resume. That way, when budgets and outlooks are fresh, you'll have an equally fresh-looking resume that showcases you as exactly the type of person they're looking for. _ Don't wait until January. Get the jump on today. If you'd like a little help perfecting yo...ur CV, shoot me an email with the word HOLIDAY for 10% off any resume bundle. Peep the link in bio. Offer valid until December 13. _ #yourewelcome #promo #newyearnewyou #jumpstart #jobhunt #careerchange #moneymoves #shotatsuccess #resume #coverletter #linkedin #womenhelpingwomen #womenatwork #sbo #bbo #fempreneur #solopreneur #bundle #hohoho #bangresumeworks #BRW See more

#tiptuesday Discipline has never been one of my strong suits. I am easily distracted, and can find almost any excuse not to do somethingeven when I like doing it because let's face it: work is work. Despite what many think, discipline isnt innate. Its a learned behaviour. So how does one become more disciplined? ... Honestly, the innerwebs are a wealth of simple, proven methods to help establish good habits and improve control. But there's one thing that has always worked for me: https://www.instagram.com/p/B5VMEYzophT/ #bangresumeworks #brw

#tiptuesdayworking a #gigeconomy means that sometimes you'll work freelance/on contact, or on a rolling basis. Because of this, you'll often get asked: "What's your rate?" Here are 3 useful tips on how to set your rates, stay competitive, and answer the dreaded question without selling yourself short.... http://bit.ly/BRWrates

#tiptuesday: Finding the right mentor and getting the most out of the relationship can be tricky, so set up an accountability partnership to get the most out of your goals. What's an accountability partnership and how do you set one up? Luckily, it's super easy: just find someone (friend, colleague, gym partnerliterally anyone) you trust to be your AP. It just needs to be someone reliable and committed, who has the same level of ambition and desire to be held accountable as... you do. You and your AP can encourage and help each other stay on track with your goals and follow through on your plans. You'll also cheer each other on so that you can both stay the courseand get called out for slacking off or getting distracted. Accountability is the catalyst for achieving any goal, and having someone to stay accountable to makes us more productive and focused on the most important tasks. You're much more likely to take actions if someone is taking note and tracking your goals, while also cheering you on along the way. _______ Like this post? Comment below. Every Tuesday I deliver tips that help give you a real shot at career success! #onetogrowon #bangresumeworks #brw

A group of inspiring and ambitious ladies joined me at Cafe Fiorentina on the morning of November 10, as I hosted my very first @bangresumeworks workshop.

#werememberLet's take the day to remember the men and women who fought and dedicated their lives to ensure the rights and freedoms we have today. I often reflect on how fortunate I am to live here, and how grateful I am that my parents choose to come to Canada from Barbados and call it home. #remembranceday #poppies #weremember #wethankyou #nousnoussouviens #merci #bangresumeworks #BRW

Perception vs. Reality. #selfies During today's workshop we delved into how to get of out own heads, #getaGRIP and #giterdone. What a morning! ... Hope everyone had an amazing day. Every single woman in there had great insights and perspectives to share. I am so happy to have to chance to share today with you all. I look forward to more productive workshops. #workshops #morning #sunday #bangresumeworks #BRW