Our guest blogger is Pam Robison of J. Gifford Inc. in Tulsa, Oklahoma. J. Gifford Inc. is a small, quality conscious firm providing highly individualized recruiting services to clients on a local, regional, national and international basis. The firm’s recruiting activities are focused on professional, technical and managerial placement, as well as contractor and international staffing for clients. Pam is currently serving as Immediate Past Chair of the NPAworldwide Board of Directors. Today, she offers practical job search advice for new and early career candidates.

You need experience to get a job, but you need a job to get experience. If you’re just starting your career, you’ve probably run into this classic “Catch-22.”

Whether you’ve finished high school, completed a trade program, earned a college degree, or already started working, presenting yourself to an employer can be challenging when your experience is limited. Read the rest of this entry »

Today’s guest blogger is Angelo DiDonato, Senior Recruitment Specialist at Logic Executive Search & Workplace Solutions. Logic Executive Search (an NPAworldwide member firm) is an executive recruitment firm known for its high-touch, relationship-driven approach to executive and professional search, partnering with organizations across Ontario and beyond to help secure top leadership and specialized talent. With nearly a decade of experience, Angelo leverages his MBA along with his CHRP, RPR, and LSSBB designations to deliver data-informed, people-centric recruitment solutions that support long-term organizational success. Additionally, with a passion for career development, Angelo regularly serves as a mentor and guest speaker for students and new professionals. Today he shares job advice for new grads

Stepping into the job market as a new graduate can feel equal parts exciting and overwhelming. You’ve spent years building your knowledge, skills, and abilities, yet coming out of education and landing that first role can feel like a challenge. The good news? With the right strategies and mindset, you can navigate this transition with confidence and set yourself up for long-term success.

Below are the most impactful pieces of advice I can share with early-career professionals entering today’s job market. Read the rest of this entry »

Staying ahead of the job market means continuously adapting and acquiring new skills. To future-proof your career, focus on developing competencies that will remain relevant and valuable in the coming years. 

Digital literacy stands out as an essential skill. With the ongoing advancement of technology and automation, familiarity with digital tools, software, and platforms is crucial. Proficiency in areas such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cybersecurity can significantly boost your career resilience.  Read the rest of this entry »

When it comes to making a lasting impression in today’s job market, a well-crafted resume is just the starting point. If you want to stand out, especially in competitive or creative industries, a professional online portfolio can tip the scales in your favor. It’s not just for designers and developers—marketers, writers, recruiters, analysts, and even project managers are building digital showcases of their work.  Read the rest of this entry »

Career goals give your professional life direction. Without them, it’s easy to drift—jumping from job to job without a clear sense of purpose. But when your goals are clear and actionable, they become a roadmap to fulfillment, growth, and opportunity. The key isn’t just dreaming big—it’s creating goals that are realistic, motivating, and measurable.

Start by looking inward. What do you enjoy most about your work? What kind of impact do you want to have? What lifestyle do you envision for yourself five years from now? Defining what success looks like for you personally helps you build goals that are aligned—not just impressive on paper. Read the rest of this entry »

When considering a new job, it’s essential to evaluate whether temporary or direct-hire employment aligns better with your career goals. Both options have unique advantages and drawbacks and understanding them can help you make the best decision for your situation. Read the rest of this entry »

Landing a job offer is exciting, but before you give an enthusiastic yes, take a step back. It’s a big decision to accept a new job, and the details matter more than the title or paycheck alone. Asking the right questions now can save you from unpleasant surprises later—and help you start with clarity and confidence.  Read the rest of this entry »

Not all job openings are posted on job boards. In fact, many of the best opportunities never make it to a public listing—they’re filled through referrals, internal promotions, or direct outreach. This hidden job market can be a goldmine if you know how to tap into it.

The first key is networking—not the awkward, hand-out-your-business-card kind, but the genuine kind. Talk to people in your industry, attend virtual events, reach out on LinkedIn, and reconnect with former colleagues. Let people know you’re open to new opportunities. The more visible and active you are in your professional circles, the more likely someone will think of you when something opens up. Read the rest of this entry »

When searching for a new job or contemplating a career change, transferable skills can be your greatest asset. But what exactly are they? These are abilities and expertise that you’ve gained in one role, industry, or life experience that can be applied to a new position or workplace. Whether you’re shifting industries or advancing in your field, having a strong set of transferable skills ensures that you remain competitive and adaptable. Read the rest of this entry »

Navigating the job search in a digital world presents both opportunities and challenges for job seekers. The digital landscape has transformed how we find and apply for jobs, making it easier to access job openings and connect with potential employers. However, it also requires a strategic approach to stand out in a crowded marketplace. Read the rest of this entry »