Sponsored in memory of David Mouckley. An exemplary past president of JVS of Greater Toronto and an inspirational role-model for volunteers helping newcomers. (funded by his caring friend Michael Shulman)

Welcome Spring!

The chill is leaving the air and warmer winds are moving in.  As the trees and flowers blossom with the promise of renewal and rebirth, spring is a wonderful time to revisit and renew your career goals.  As a Canadainfonet protege, you're already taking a significant step towards career growth.  Through our program, you'll access fresh information, useful tools and support that will help you on your career track.

Spring Cleaning

Spring is an ideal time to throw out the old and replace it with something fresh and energizing.  Here are some spring cleaning tips you may want to apply to your career and your job search:

Reassess what is working for you and what isn't

Remember that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results each time.  Are your methods working?  Have you been getting the results you're hoping for?  If not, perhaps it's time to try a new approach! 

Be creative.  Brainstorm new methods

Try new career websites.  Revamp your resume.  Contact new people for information.  Try some creative networking approaches.  Write a wish list of everything you want to accomplish and create two new approaches or methods that you've never tried before.  You may discover a more effective way of accomplishing your goals!

Tap into your network

Spring is a great time to get out of the house and connect with people who will motivate you.  Invite a new contact for lunch.  Attend a new association meeting or seminar.  Check around for networking events at your employment centre, community centre, social club or educational institution.

Take a new course

New spring and summer courses are being offered by most colleges and universities.  Check out course catalogues and Internet sites.  A commitment to lifelong learning will ensure you feel renewed and vital -- just like the spring weather!

Get outdoors for some healthy fun

All work and no play leads to poor physical and mental health.  Focusing solely on work and career while ignoring exercise and leisure activities is counter-productive.  Numerous studies have shown that people who lead a balanced life with time devoted to exercise and leisure actually perform better in their jobs.  So get outside and take a bike ride, a long walk in the park or meet up with some friends for a game of baseball.  It'll do your career good!

SELF MARKETING 101

Networking Dos And Don'ts
(Adapted From "Dig Your Well Before You're Thirsty" By Harvey Mackay)

• Do try to recognize the differences among people in your network.  Ask people who like to be in control for their opinions.  Ask team players to help you solve problems. 
• Don't expect every contact you make to give you an immediate return.  It takes awhile to find the gems.  It may take even longer to polish them. 
• Do try to renew valuable contacts even when you've waited too long.   It isn't necessary to do it all at once.  Start by making a phone call just to say hello, then follow up with a face-to-face meeting. 
• Do change your approach for each of your networks.  This isn't hypocritical.  You wouldn't ask your clergyman to join your Friday night poker game.  
• Don' t stay with one group exclusively.  Expand your horizons or you'll stagnate. 
• Do learn to listen.  Listening is the most valuable tool you can use to enrich your relationship with others. 
• Do use other people's time constructively.  Staying in touch does not mean making a pest of yourself. 
• Do be prepared to return any favor given you.  Better yet, anticipate the request by doing something unasked.