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Show Me Your Skills: Why You Need to Ask for More Than Just a Resume

We've all encountered those words: "only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews." Recruiters achieve this by looking at resumes and cover letters (and potentially looking you up online), but isn't it a better idea to shortlist applicants based off their ability to work? Consider this, a lot of companies these days are changing the face of People and Culture, by asking for something a little more unique than just a resume. We've talked about it for a long time, we've promoted the trend of the creative resume. We've seen cakes publicly perform as applications. Still, it is a trend that a lot of companies are embracing and here are some reasons why. 

Make Them Use Your Product

Companies like Unbounce are clever in their recruiting tactics. They ask applicants to create a landing page application oppose to sending them a resume. In fact, they state on their Careers Page: "don't send us your resume, we'll just delete it." Landing pages are the hallmark of Unbounce's business.  This request works well because it not only adds a new user to their platform, and promotes the product of their company, but it also enables recruiters to see how good you are at experiencing, understanding and exercising their product. On the flip side, it helps them find points of improvement. Why wouldn't Unbounce want to hire the people who are skilled to express their product the best? They wouldn't, which is why it is actually a really valuable way of isolating the weak and qualified from each other. At the same time, Unbounce has to understand that not everybody is a graphic designer, and therefore alternative, creative applications or Job Fairs could serve as a beneficial supplementary idea. Not every position involves the ability to rock a landing page, and Unbounce should be optimistic that they can readily train their new employees to master their products. 

Make Them Go The Extra Mile 

I was recently asked to write, "why it is the job, and not just a job." People really want to know that you genuinely want to work for them beyond your desire to become employed. They want to know that they stood out to you for a reason that ranks above getting a steady pay cheque. Companies like Rise (who promise an HR revolution), are also promoting the use of Unbounce landing pages for their application process. They want to see more than a resume. They want you to go that extra mile. This is a great way to determine who really wants the job, and who is willing to put the effort in, but also who can do the job. 

Ensure That They Understand Your Market 

Startups like Kabuni really put applicants to the test. They want to ensure that you've got the skills for their market. Kabuni will go so far as to ask you to construct a 90-day business plan of how you will directly benefit their corporation by utilizing your skills. They want to see that you have something diverse to bring to the table, something that they currently lack, but still need.  Depending on the department you are applying for, they might ask you to complete a task pertaining to your desired role. Or they may ask you to create a couple of videos for them. Kabuni pushes you to educate yourself in the fields that they are most interested in exploring as a company. This easily could be a way for companies to get inspired by other people's ideas, but it is also a strategy to see who is willing to go that extra mile. Who really has something to offer that will increase productivity, brand awareness and lead generation. Someone who really has the ability to create material that companies like Kabuni want. They are looking to be "wowed" and they want to work with the very best. Companies want to see innovation. They might treat you like you are a top-contender, butter you up, and end up not hiring you, but in reality they are doing this to every applicant (with potential) in order to filter out the top talent for the job.  Not everyone uses this hiring tactic, but some people believe that they need to raise you up, in order for you to deliver your very best. 

Get A Sense Of Their Skills Before You Hire Them 

It doesn't have to be something big, but it could be something extra. If Recruiters at Footprint like what they see, they will send you a few questions to answer, which are important to their brand, but also help them get to know you and your working style. Additionally, your answers to these questions will shape whether or not you are suitable for the position. Seeing how you respond enables companies to decide if they want to move forward with you or not. This exercise challenges your skills, but also makes the applicant understand whether or not it is a good fit.

Companies like Simply speaks to this reality, as they ask shortlisted candidates for a writing assignment (pertaining to what they do) to see if applicants' skills speak to what they are looking for. Other Marketing agencies have done similar things, in asking applicants to take "copywriting tests" and personality tests. Companies will also present talent with a scenario in which they would like a sample solution for. This could be as simple as asking the contender to write a short sales email about a particular product. All of this helps the recruiters to see why you stand out and are right for the job. Asking applicants to show you examples of their work is essential towards acknowledging talent that isn't on a resume. Some people just aren't good at selling themselves, which is why you shouldn't base your hiring process merely off of one's experience outlined on a piece of paper. As impressive as it may be, hands-on skills should be tested in order to prove those 'resume-listed credentials' true.  

People may question why recruiters ask for more than just a resume. There are articles on the internet of people not getting the job, but having their work (produced in the interview stage) used by the company. This is certainly a gamble you take, however, when dealing with the right companies, which you trust, you shouldn't go in with this fear. Chances are recruiters liked what they saw on your resume, and now want to see if you can put it work. It's a "put your money where your mouth is" kind of approach. Your resume talks the talk, but can you walk the walk? Showing your skills should be a part of the hiring process because it will guarantee for better talent fits in the future. 

Horoscopes for the Hiring Manager: What your Star-Sign Says About You at Work.

They always say you have to find the right fit when seeking employment. We might not even realize why we work well with the people we do, but there is something to be considered about Astrology and the workplace. 

Different star signs have stronger abilities to work well together, while other energies have the potential of clashing. When recruiting it might be wise to note the expectations of each sign and how they produce in the work place.

What is your Astrological work style? 

Horoscopes for the Hiring Manager! 

Air: Indecisive, easy-going, most chill

Water: Emotional, intuitive

Fire: most intense, outgoing,

Earth: Rational, grounded

Aries (March 21-April 19)

                           

A true Aries is happiest in charge. Aries likes to be the boss. They are good at calling the shots, managing people, events, brands and projects. Aries is often very hard-working and gifted at what they do. Aries has the ability to really lead teams and inspire individuals with their unique approach. Aries will always want the best so they will seek out the best jobs and the best teams. Aries likes to win so they will push towards creating advantages for your corporation. Aries will often put career before love. Their jobs can often be demanding and a huge part of their existence. Aries makes for excellent managers, entertainers, CEOS, project managers and architects. Aries knows how to build things up to greatness, and as long as they can keep their anger and stress levels in control, Aries has the capability to be very successful in the workforce. 

Best Matches: Leos, Sagittarius, Gemini, 

It Has Hope: Libra, Aquarius, Pisces

Be Cautious of: Cancer, Scorpio, Capricorn, Virgo,Taurus

Sagittarius ( November 22-December 21)

There is something in the outgoing nature of fire signs that makes them natural born leaders. Sagittarius is also a bit bossy by nature, like Aries they strive to make big moves, and excel at being in charge. Sagittarius needs to own what they do, they need to feel passionate about coming to work. Sagittarius can really flourish in the business world and is often successful at becoming a credible business woman or man. Sagittarius doesn't like to take orders, they prefer to give them. They have an ideal about how everything should go, and are excellent at overseeing matters and putting in their final input. Sagittarius also loves to play and make gambles. They aren't afraid to take big risks in their career. They have to be careful of who they trust and who they associate with. Certain partnerships can prove foul for the Sagittarius, but Sagittarius is a hustler, and is constantly making moves. 

Best Matches: Leos, Sagittarius, Gemini, 

It Has Hope: Libra, Virgo, Aquarius, Scorpio, Pisces

Be Cautious of: Cancer, Capricorn,Taurus

Leo (July 23-August 22)

                           

I've always said that Leo is sometimes the best when they can be their own boss. Leo is a golden leader. They rule the jungle and need a strong following. Though they often have one by nature. A true Leo is pretty popular, and certainly hard-working, but Leo needs to love what they do in order to stay engaged. Leo will be loyal forever, but they have to love the work. Their work has to speak to who they are, and Leo will shout it loud and proud when it does. When Leo follows their dreams almost nothing can go wrong. When Leo wants to shine, they will. People can't seem to ignore them or refrain from loving them. Leo is very talented and charming, when they find what they love, they touch people, they thrive, they soar. Leo is in many lights the hero at work, the person who helps you, and saves you. The person that makes a difference because they stand out and make the work place more enjoyable. Leo will be that knowing person who you trust that you can come to for the best answer, and the best help possible. When Leo wants to be, they make for an excellent teacher and working mentor.

Best Matches: Aries, Sagittarius, Gemini, Libra 

It Has Hope:  Aquarius, Cancer, Virgo, Pisces

Be Cautious of: Scorpio, Capricorn,Taurus

Capricorn (December 22-Jan 19)

                          

I always say that your dreams will come true, that everything you want in your life will come to you- because you work for it. Capricorn is the definition of work, they are rarely at rest. Capricorn wants things out of life and goes after them. Capricorn is often that manager by the book, who sets their own tone, which can be desired or resented. Capricorn has their own traditions that they live by. They can't help but project their expectations and guidelines onto you. Capricorn is often the first man in and the last man out, they work very hard, but they are not often satisfied. Capricorn has very big expectations of things, people and projects. They will have high standards and hold you to them. Capricorn does give second chances, but it will take them a long time to forget and see you in a new light. You really will have to prove yourself to your Capricorn coworker or boss. Capricorn also responds well to validation, they like being told that they are implementing good change. Capricorn is not the type to do good without credit. If they get a promotion, or a new sense of power, you will know about it. 

Best Matches:,Virgo, Taurus, Scorpio, Pisces 

It Has Hope: Libra, Aquarius, Gemini, Pisces

Be Cautious of: Capricorn, Aries, Leo 

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

                           

Taurus is a sign of control. Unlike fire signs, earth signs make for good bosses in different ways. Taurus is very hard-working. They have a lazy side, for sure, but they often don't show it at work. Taurus shows people how it is done. Taurus will give. Taurus will be trusted and given the keys in a very short period of time. Taurus can lose their cool on occasion and be a bit of a bully, but for the most part they are tender at the root. I've met Taurus bosses who got off on being mean and orderly, but I knew they were good people at the center. Taurus will sometimes take being in charge too seriously, but their heart is always in the right place. Taurus is sensible and smart and makes good judgment calls. They can make hard tasks look effortless. They have a good taste and a good sense of style, and things are often very safe in their hands. Taurus might enjoy working with their hands. Taurus will embrace manual labour or long hours, they are very durable and hard to break. When Taurus is at work, they are usually very focused and dedicated. 

Best Matches: Virgo, Cancer, Gemini, Capricon 

It Has Hope: Aquarius, Pisces

Be Cautious of: Libra, Scorpio, Taurus, 

Virgo (August 23-September 22)

As another earth sign, it would be a lie to say Virgo doesn't like to be in control. Virgo has their way of seeing things, and it will be hard for them not to weigh in. Instead of talking back to the boss, Virgo is better as being the boss. Virgo is highly intelligent and immensely hard-working. They are the sign of service and are constantly giving as much of themselves and more to their jobs. Virgo is highly critical so when they pay you a compliment at work they really mean it. Virgo can be stubborn, but they really care about their jobs and strive towards professionalism. Sometimes Virgo thinks they have a better way, but they will work hard to prove to you that they are right.The Virgo at home is not the Virgo at work, and Virgo will always keep it this way. Unless, they trust you, in which case, Virgo might let you in, but not entirely. The Virgo tends to love privacy and morality--at work they do things by the book. Virgo will be great at solving problems and putting the pieces of the puzzle together. Virgo is prone to being good at numbers and organizing data. They see things in a special way. They have knowing instincts that can rarely be questioned. Their level of dedication to their job is commendable. There is something quite admirable about a Virgo's sense of focus.

Best Matches:,Capricorn, Taurus, Scorpio, Cancer, Libra

It Has Hope:  Aquarius, Pisces

Be Cautious of: Virgo, Aries, Gemini 

Libra (September 23-October 22)

There are many Libra people in positions of power, however, I dispute they are likely cusp signs. Either part Virgo or part Scorpio in conjunction with being part Libra. A true Libra doesn't really enjoy telling people what to do. Libra likes to be liked, and they like to keep the cool. They might have a craft that they are the master of, and do it well for a company that loves them. They might be really unmotivated and working in the hospitality industry, even though they have bigger talents and dreams--Libra isn't always the first to move. Many Libra people do not want to grow up, and a part of growing up is getting your career together. Libra needs to find the motivation within in order to achieve their goals and fulfill their potential. Libra is full of promise and opportunity so when they desire they make things happen and get what they want. A Libra can have a variety of talents, which when executed properly are usually rather brilliant.  Libra has to learn how to demand more for themselves in the workplace, acknowledging that they are specially talented and have a lot of value to offer, which is't expendable.

Best Matches: Leos, Aquarius, Gemini, Scorpio 

It Has Hope: Cancer Pisces, Virgo

Be Cautious of: Libra, Capricorn, Taurus

Gemini (May 21-June 21)

Gemini is the communications master. There isn't anything a Gemini couldn't do, Gemini is highly capable. As a visionary, Gemini will often have a niche, a place of work in which they truly flourish at. Prone to detail and aesthetic, Gemini is great in Merchandising, the Arts and excellent at communication, Gemini can make for great Salesmen, Lawyers, and Interior Designers. Gemini is also great in hospitality. They love to take care of others and provide the ultimate guest experience. Whatever Gemini does, it can't be boring. At lot of Gemini people have short attention spans and operate at a high pace. They need to be stimulated by what they do--and constantly. They need to love what they do, otherwise Gemini will up and leave it. Gemini isn't afraid to take a leap of faith or say goodbye. While they get over things quickly, they also are prone to making life changes and holding a resume of diverse experience. 

Best Matches:LIbras, Aquarius, Leos, Taurus

It Has Hope: Libra, Aquarius, Pisces, Scorpio, Capricorn

Be Cautious of:  Pisces, Gemini,Virgo

Aquarius (Jan 19-Feb 18)

Aquarius is the genius of the Zodiac. They are highly gifted and can really make it at whatever they do. Aquarius is the type to inspire others and change the world - or at least, change the face of the work place. Aquarius is a mastermind, and in the right position, with the right team, they really excel. They are constantly heading their own projects and taking part in multiple things. It is not rare to meet an Aquarius with multiple jobs. Many Aquarius people are like mini celebrities as they live rich, full lives that other people envy. Aquarius has to acknowledge that not everyone is on their page, and once they learn to teach their skills to others, they will become truly valuable. Aquarius is best in the mentor role, as they often possess qualities, which others look up to. It is important that Aquarius uses their gifts to do good. Aquarius has high expectations and needs to ensure that work satisfies their desires. Aquarius has the tendency to get stuck somewhere, working at the same place for years or the complex of moving from one place to the other. Aquarius needs to find a sense of home in their occupation, and once they do Aquarius will be happy. It is important to keep the Aquarius motivated and challenged. Aquarius doesn't want to feel like they could do their job in their sleep--they want more. If Aquarius can get everything that they want from one place then they will be in a good position.

Best Matches: ,Gemini, Libra,  

It Has Hope: Leo, Pisces, Scorpio,Cancer

Be Cautious of: Capricorn, Virgo,Taurus

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Cancer simply has to find their craft in order to be successful. They can't pretend for too long in a job they don't love. They won't do well with authority figures and they won't love being the authority figure. Cancer needs to work with the right people. They are highly creative and empathic people, but they are emotional and don't get along with just anyone. When Cancer finds the right support in the workplace, they can do great things. Cancer is the solutions specialist. They are crafty and domestic, they know how to solve a project management problem and bake a pie at the same time. Cancer might pick the simple life over the crazy career because they crave comfort, and will often put love and family before work. Cancer is an excellent provider, but their happiness is crucial, and if work isn't making Cancer happy, Cancer will have to move on. Cancer is skilled, and while they might seem reserved at first, once you crack them, they will open you up to a world full of possibility and intellect. 

Best Matches:  Pisces, Scorpios, Leos, Libra Sagittarius,Capricorn, Virgo, Taurus

It Has Hope:  Sagittarius, Aquarius, Gemini, Aries

Be Cautious of:  Cancers, 

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

Scorpio is the type to bring the office home with them. Scorpio will work above and beyond their means. Scorpio is constantly putting in and giving back. Scorpio is great in charge, and if they are not the boss at work, they are certainly the boss of something in their life. Scorpio is a sign of control, they too can set a perfect working example. Scorpio women are known to take on the world, they have tons of girl boss energy. Scorpio is highly intelligent, trust is important to them, which is why that you can trust that they will do an excellent job. Scorpio doesn't always verbally communicate properly, but you can read a lot about them from their body language. Scorpio will earn your respect in an instant. If you work for a Scorpio, you will be impressed and want to impress them back. Sometimes Scorpio bites off more than they can chew, but they always manage to swallow. Scorpio is the work superhero. Sometimes they are silent, but they are always deadly and extremely effective. A Scorpio really knows how to work their way up the ladder and create that "wow factor."

Best Matches:  Cancer, Pisces, Libra, Sagittarius, Gemini, Virgo

It Has Hope: Libra, Aquarius, 

Be Cautious of:  Scorpio, Virgo, Taurus

Pisces (Feb 19-March 20)

There are plenty of fish in the sea, and therefore plenty of different working fish. Some Pisces don't have big career motivations. Pisces can embrace their child-like essence and hate the idea of getting older or setting real, long-term goals in the real world. On the other hand, Einstein was a Pisces and greatness is really possible in this sign. Pisces can be gifted in intellect and perception. They have really good ideas, and strong intuitions that can be trusted. Usually blessed with a creative passion, Pisces is diverse and capable of bringing great energy to the work environment. It is important for Pisces to find the right fit, and the right job, not just any job. Pisces needs to like the people that they work with and feel inspired. As Pisces is written as the sign that has aspects of every sign in it, anything is possible. World leaders, CEOs, celebrities, lawyers, artists, the sky is really the limit when it comes to Pisces. You never know what you are going to get, but you should expect honesty. A good fish will bring brilliance to the table. A good fish will be popular in the work place and set a unique, and one-of-a-kind example. A good fish will leave a memorable mark.

Best Matches: Cancers, Scorpios, Capricorn,Taurus 

It Has Hope: Aquarius, Virgo, Aries, Leo, Sagittarius 

Be Cautious of:  Libra, Gemini, Pisces 

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Happy Year, Happy Me: Horoscopes for 2016!

2015 was a year; a lot of people in my life would take back. We wish we could take things back, but soon learn that we don’t have control over the things that happen to us. This can drive us crazy. This can break us emotionally. We want to be able to help, to make things better, to fix things, to fix people, to change outcomes, to re-write stories. We want to know we are making a difference, but we don’t always get that choice. This can be the hardest thing to accept knowing love is not enough to change fate.

Life happens often without reasoning, and it teaches us that somethings will never be the same. Change is drastic. One moment, one incident, one experience can re-shape you, change you. Forever.

We all deal with things differently and express our pain in different ways, and some of us don’t know how to cope at all. Some of us struggle to carry on; some of us feel it’s unfair for us to enjoy life again, while other people will keep going on distractions. When you lose something, it is forever lost, it is missing, and while we will always look back upon them, not even the memories can replace the lose, or bring that person back or make it better. Though we try, that person or thing now gone, changes our life. We will carry that pain with us because some wounds weren’t meant to heal. People become soldiers when they learn to live and cope with their wounds. While they are hard to confront, they do serve as an impression of your strength, your will and your courage.

They give you wisdom. The bullets we take and survive gives us a new figure, a new state of mind, and a new heart. We are carried to new places and points of understanding. As we have seen places we never wish to have visited, our empathy grows. While, I’m sure in many cases it also shuts down, but the capacity for empathy enlarges when you have lost, suffered or endured. Our ability to understand pain changes and perhaps are willingness to help and recognize people as humans before we judge them-- not knowing what is going on in their world. Pain recognizes pain, and the saying that we are often made better by helping someone else is quite true.

Which is why it is so hard when you would give anything to help someone and can’t. When you are forced to realize that looking ahead only makes matters worse. That really all we have for now is just right now, and this moment. We have now. What will come? We don’t know, but until then we can #LiveForTheMoment, and we can #LiveHarder for beautiful people like MP and Tracy Penner who we have lost far too soon and tragically. For our #ReyofSunshine recovering with such grace, and dignity. For all the people who are sick, and can’t get better, but who want to, and will not stop--because as it was stated, we will do whatever we can to keep ourselves alive. We will do whatever we can to help those we love. 

May we enjoy each other for this moment, and share with one another how we feel. Express the gratitude that you have for the love in your life because it is not something to be taken for granted. Moments come and go, but they are precious, so be mindful of them.

Keep things alive within you for an eternity, and never feel afraid to talk about how you are feeling. Things can be bad, and they can get worse, but you’ll reach a point when you know that things can only get better. Life really is a series of ups and downs, and it doesn’t always make sense. It is not suppose to. If it did we would all be figured out, and so many of us still remain giant question marks. So many of us die this way. It is actually not our job to have everything figured out. It might look like we have landed somewhere, but we have no idea where we are going. We would like to say, hope, believe and think that everything we desire for ourselves is going to come true, but life has a special way of giving us things we didn’t even know we wanted. Regardless, the way it works out isn’t always up to you, but what you can change is how you feel about it.

HOROSCOPES FOR THE END OF THE YEAR/THE NEW YEAR

Aries (March 21-April 19)

 

 It would be lovely to see you do something impulsive—switch up the game a little bit. Not to say, this isn't something in your power.You know you need something to make you smile, and while that hasn’t been that easy these days, there is so much left in you to give. This year, give yourself those moments to re-charge. Known when to say no, and remember that everything has to end. It might not be when we want it, it might not even be something that we want, but we have to learn to let it shape us. You have learned that life isn’t always easy, but you are a leader, and rarely give up, even when you are exhausted. Listen to your gut, it will tell all. You're going places at your own speed, so just say when.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

 

Moving onto some new connections could be good here—sometimes you get stuck swimming in the same circles when all you want to do is swim free. Remember you need to breath, in a relationship, you need to breath. You need to feel comfortable. There are a lot of things you have achieved, goals you set that you made happen, but it’s not over yet. There is more, and while you are busy chasing your goals, the other things will come into place, but don’t put too much focus on love, just let it find you, it will, if you are occupied, doing what you enjoy most. Stop worrying. Nobody knows how much you think about the things that you want, and it's frustrating when you have the goods and aren't getting any back. You've simply got to stop working so damn hard at everything! 

Leo (July 23-August 22)

Finding time for you is really important, and no spending time with your SO doesn’t count. "Staying in" doesn't count. What time do you take for you? A long shower doesn’t count. Lately, you’ve been working from fifty different angels, or perhaps it’s always like that, but you need to know when to stop. You are a devoted lover, so much so that you let little things go for your lover, but they fester within you and they build. Speak on the small stuff, you’re actually not as good at letting things go as you think you are. Ask yourself why you spend so much time with others; helping others, working for others, is there something you are too scared to face alone? You need to have a strong relationship with you otherwise you will fall apart.

Capricorn (December 22-Jan. 19)

It’s hard for a lot of you to feel happy, or at least most of the time. This is because you work too hard. If you love your job it’s different, Capricorn will feel on a high at work (and a high on life), but when Capricorn is working hard in places that bring them down, they don’t feel in control and this makes for a bad Capricorn. Love will help support the Capricorn as long as Capricorn doesn’t take their stress out on their love, and learns to give back loving words. Don’t taint your good relationships, remember that work isn’t the most important thing, and ask yourself what it. What do you want? Regardless, it will all fall into place, as I once told a beautiful and intelligent Capricorn girl, “you will get everything you want from life because you work for it”, hard work does pay off here, but it’s not magic, it doesn’t turn around over night, and it will take exactly that, hard work to make it all possible. Ask yourself what you can’t live without and pour your energy into that.

 Taurus (April 20-May 20)

It would be nice to see the Taurus make a change. Not a travel change, or a hair change, or a clothing change, but a real life change. Is there a class you want to take? A job you want to work towards? What’s something you want to do for you? Take up design? Start reading again? Anything goes here, but it needs to be about you and your own productivity. Taurus loves to shares, but they do keep a lot private. A lot. Taurus will straight up surprise you with news that you didn’t see coming. Love is hot when it’s hot, and frustrating when it’s cold, but remember the standards you set for yourself. It won’t just be anybody, and if it's someone, try not to give everything that you have to this person. Having your own life a part from your partner will only make your love stronger. Don’t be hard on yourself either, eat what you want, stop looking in the mirror. You work hard to look great, and trust me, you do.

Virgo (August 23-September 22)

You will come to some realizations about important decisions this year. You will learn that in some regards, you can’t continue to play around. Love is probably the one place you’re not in any rush to go to, though you might be there or have been there a few times. A lot of you are in the right place, with a partner who is finally on the same page as you. Others don’t know, and may not want to, as getting married isn’t the first thing on your list to do. Virgo wants to build their empire and get to a place of power; they will put their drive before their heart. This year, try to let go of things that only bring you down. Try to focus on what’s making you happy, but be honest with yourself, is what's suppose to be making you happy actually making you happy? There are many good days ahead, but you’ll take it all in like a true realist, knowing things will occur that aren’t pleasant. Virgo will take the pain with the pleasure to keep working hard, and finding time for number one. See, Virgo can’t be around you all the time, and if you’re really the right person for them, you won’t expect them to be.

Libra (September 23-October 22)

You probably admit you have a hard time knowing what you want. You know what you think, most of the time, but knowing how you feel has always been a problem. You’re just too curious, sometimes it gets in the way. You do want to know everything, but not for the wrong reasons. You’re just concerned. You just want to know. Some of you have been with people for very long periods of time, and it’s likely your partner has wondered where your level of commitment is at. I’m sure some of you have even broken up and gotten back together with mates. Libra doesn’t always think ahead. They want to be married, sure, to you, and their best friend and other best friend, but they don’t want to have to pick between loves. Libra is likely to have a few soul mates in their lives that satisfy different aspects. Eventually, they are more than happy to settle down, but it does take time—if you’re a true Libra, that is.

 Gemini (May 21-June 20)

 You might say things, but you don’t always mean them. At least not if they hurt people’s feelings. You might act like you don’t care, but you do care. If you’re not right with someone who matters to you, it does affect you. Though, in typical Gemini fashion you will try to play it cool. Gemini hates to wait for results. Even if it’s a matter of paying their own consequences, Gemini would much rather speed up the process. This year it’s important for Gemini to work on their communication (even though Gemini is the master of communication), and really try to notice how they talk to people. Or how they might treat certain people differently than others. Gemini is very prone to having secrets because they don’t like people knowing what could be perceived as “bad” about them. Gemini would like to maintain an image that other people can admire (maybe even idolize.) All that matters is that it's a reflection they are happy to see in the mirror (and we know how much Gemini loves the mirror.) Gemini needs to stop moving towards the danger zone of things, and see if stuff can happen naturally without drama. You’re going to be happiest by getting what you least expect, so stop being so quick to cast things off. What you end up with and whom you end up with will be a surprise, but first, you’ve got to open yourself up to the opportunity.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-feb. 18)

If you feel the need to prove to people that your partner is gold, then, I’m sorry, but you have a problem with you partner. Something about them isn’t good enough for you because that’s not a normal approach. OK. Once in a while, sure, but trying to get the approval of others is a waste of time. If you love your partner, you will just love and accept them for who they are. There won’t be too many things that you need to change, or at least there shouldn’t be. Aquarius sometimes needs to know when to stop striving, but it’s hard for them. They always want more because they always see more. They are smart. They understand how things work so they know what they should be getting or what they could get. They don’t let these things go, so they usually happen. Love isn’t like this, however. Love has to happen organically and without terms. Sure, there can be some "terms", but it’s not like a contract where you both make love like a job. You simply have to let love win, and learn that a lot of things in life are not of our control. We can do our best to voice for our concerns, but sometimes the inevitable change, which is bound to come, takes a bit of waiting.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

 It’s weird for people to see you so set in your ways only to suddenly change them. You're suppose to be a creature of habit. People may wonder what your influences are, but you are simply drastic like that. Scorpio does have a lot of secretive behavior, thoughts and ambitious. Scorpio will come out and surprise you. Don’t be alarmed. Scorpio is learning too. Even if they are always the one giving the golden advice, Scorpio is still figuring out their life journey. Many Scorpios are in hiding, and bent on hiding themselves from the world. They will come back. In their own time. Scorpio is all about going at their own speed; so let them stay in control and don’t try to push them. Their buttons are fragile and if you come at them in any regard, they are more than likely to bite off your head. This is not a sign to fake it for anybody, but when they are in the right spirits, they have so much to offer. Remember, this year is still about you, and you too need to detach from relationships that ask too much of you. You also need a sense of self and a place for personal growth. Start dreaming, there is plenty of potential for Scorpio to prosper.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

The most important thing, this year, is sincerity. If you aren’t ready, ask yourself why? Do you really think you ever really were? Sometimes we sit on stumps for a while, but eventually, we move on from that stump. This is something that Cancer struggles to do—move on. They would rather stay in a crappy relationship than break up, and it only hurts them more in the end. Though, it’s not to say that many Cancers aren’t happy with the right people. It is, however, important that Cancer be aware of their personal thresholds and honest feelings. Cancer can easily get trapped, and it’s best to avoid that at all costs. Cancer can make the mistake of putting others before them to the point that it is unhealthy. Make sure you are taking time to do the things that make you happy. 

Pisces (Feb.19-March 20)

 With all those years of ups and down, this one just might stay on the up side--if you let it. Your popularity is totally dependant on you, your mood and your outlook. You know you can make people love you if you want, but that you’re also capable of the exact opposite. Finding a goal is good. Getting lost in love isn’t. Pisces will drink in their lover 24/7, but this distracts them from their own chaos. You have to "do" in order to make dreams come true, you have to work hard and make things happen. Dreaming is not going to pay the bills. Talent gets wasted in this sign when they lack motivation, but many are driven and will rise to great things. For those single Fish that have been waiting for a catch, it is coming, but the sooner you are too busy to notice it, the better. Career can really take off if you play your cards right, and stick to your tactics, switch things up a little. You know you stand out so use it to your advantage. Cut off ties from people who have proven to be unworthy. Don’t make excuses for people. If you don’t know, you don’t know, so stop guessing and stop asking. Focus on the facts, the things you know for certain. Stop writing your own version of the story. All you know is what you were told or what actually happened, the rest is just a wish, and wishful thinking never got the Pisces to any place good.

Why Every Business Should Use Social Media

Getting Social: The Selling Point of Social Media

   

Social media is the most life-changing form of communication since E-mail. It is a powerful source of media that is changing how we interact with each other, how we see the world, and how we do business. A Balihoo study shows that 91% of people use Facebook to find places, products and services. Social media is the new phone book, don’t you want your business to be in it? Social media benefits the consumer and the marketer. It is the perfect way to achieve brand recognition. Every opportunity you have to syndicate your content, increases your visibility and its value. Social media networks are new, free channels for the voice of your brand and it's content.

Free Marketing Space

While there is paid social media, and this can be effective, you can also access many social media platforms for free. For example, why wouldn’t you create a promotional page for your company on the second most popular website (Facebook) that has 1.49 billion monthly active uses this year? Why wouldn’t you get a twitter account? Both of these moves put you in the forefront of your community. Enabling you to post content that benefits your brand and audience. Current Marketing isn’t about selling products, it is about telling stories and creating authentic relationships. Social media helps you to build these relationships by interacting with your audience. The more you invest in these relationships, the more you will get out of them. Word-of-mouth is one of the most effective marketing tools, and social media provides you with a platform to exercises influencers and be an influencer. Meaning you can show support for other companies, and they can do the same. Or people who admire your brand can directly shout you out on social media. The ability to influence is imperative at this stage.

Gain Influencers: what are Influencers?

Influencers are people who are considered experts to their audiences, audiences which can be large, or small – the key is that the person posting has social influence of some regard. People trust the real word of everyday consumers, more than they trust ads, which is why influencers can help to promote your brand through the use of word-of-mouth, social media marketing—influencer marketing. You can pay people to influence for you, or you can reward them, endorse them with product, or offer to shout them out and their services. For example, if you use a blogger, you can shout out that person’s blog on your social media platforms. Social media helps you locate influencers and engage with them in real time. Discover brand advocates and let them help you build your community. Keep in mind that 70% of consumers who experience an effective brand response on social media are more likely to recommend that brand to others.

The world of Social Media: learn and connect 

Social media connects you with other people who are just as passionate about a certain industry. According to Spredfast, 52% of enterprise brands say that social media is the top driver for growing relationships and building brand engagement. In trying to build your brand, it does help to learn from other people in your industry, hear what they are saying and what they are doing. Monitor your competition, understand your detractors and see what’s working in your marketing. Check out your competitors, see what they are posting and be aware of what is out there. Social media is a great opportunity to see what everyone is doing. It is a great way to make connections all over the world.

You employees and coworkers have an average of 111 friends on Facebook and 25 followers, now you can reach an exceptionally wider audience without any additional costs. Now you have a platform to tell your story. Instagram has more than 200 million active users, and Youtube is the more impressionable network for ages 18-34 years old. Through targeted, one-on-one conversations, you can make your customer part of your story and create a community around your brand.

Find Your Audience

It is very important to find your target audience, and any successful business has learned to know their audiences well. Using tools like analytics can help understand the dominate demographics and patterns of your customer behaviors. Social media not only lets you target your audience better, it also provides you with the specific needs of your customer base. You can measure content, and this lets you see what is working and what is not. You will learn quickly what your audience would like to see more of, and these analytics help you provide it. Social media gives you the platform and opportunity to connect with individuals who are important to your customer service and brand strategy. Having those connections at your immediate disposal can be very helpful. It is important to make connections personal. Write back to comments, follow fans, and like their photos and photos of similar businesses. It is good to make it personal. Studies have proven that brands who engage on social media channels experience a higher loyalty from their customers. 

See Yourself Grow

Figuratively, brands become more humanized by engaging with social media channels. Here, brands can act like people do. People like doing business with other people, not companies. Through social media, you can increase your website traffic. For example, the more social media shares you get, the higher your search ranking will be. If a lot of people Retweet your post it is more likely to run higher in Google search engine result pages. Increase your website traffic – the more social media shares you get, the higher your search ranking will be.

If used properly, social media will make it easier for potential customers to find you. Whether it’s gaining more followers or increasing customer engagement, businesses around the globe are finding ways to how social media is contributing to their success and growth.

If you’re feeling limited in terms of audience, social media is an excellent way to expand your horizons. Using tools like “geo search in Hootsuite” are great for searching hashtags, which people in your neighbourhood are using—this works great with tools like Twitter.

Adding value to your online audiences is easy with social media, which allows you to engage and nurture existing fans, while expanding to new audiences.

Improve Your Customer Service Strategy

Interacting with customers regularly is a sign of good faith for other customers. Social media works in real-time and it provides you with instant commentary from your customers. This is highly valuable insight. It can help everything from new product growth to customer retention. Social media is where people are going to compliment or brag about a brand.

There are a lot of things you can do to interact with your customer and improve customer services. Aside from commenting on photos, following people and liking photos, you can also ask questions on your platforms, which engage users. You can start twitter chats, which are successfully demonstrated by companies like T-Mobile and Hootsuite. You can also do give-aways, draws and contests on your feed. You can find ways to involve customers in your social media: engagement is key.

Social media provides for a richer customer experience, it opens up a line of communication. Social media interaction with customers improves customer insight. You can utilize the skill of social listening and find out what your customers are interested in, and what they would like to see less of. Remember, your competition is likely already involved, don’t let them reap the benefits – get social. 

Increase Leads and Traffic

There are many encouraging statistics which support the concept that effective social media brings leads and traffic.  According to Linkedin, 82% of people report that social media is helpful for lead generation. 77% of b2C and 43% of b2b companies say they’ve acquired customers through Facebook, and 68% of consumers check out companies online before buying. Meaning that your social media, in many rights, is your online catalogue, it’s the medium people are using to check you out before they affiliate with you in any regard. Social media is the new phonebook. Hubspot reports that 92% of marketers (2014) said that their social media marketing was vital to their business. Social media platforms all call attention to your website, 80% of people quoted that their social media efforts increased traffic to their website.

Remember that every created post on social media is an opportunity to convert, and “opportunity” is the first element of any action. Social media profiles create another path back to every website and every amount of content you syndicate to those social media profiles is another chance for a new visitor.

Keep in mind that the content you post will have a huge influence. Aim to post quality content. Quality content = more inbound traffic = more conversions and leads.

Google and other search engines might be calculating their rankings using social media, and because of this, most strong brands use social media. Showing activity on social media can act as a “brand signal” to search engines deeming that your brand is credible, trustworthy, and legitimate. 

You have to have a dominate social media presence. Social media has a 100% higher lead-to-close rate that outbound marketing. A higher number of social media followers can improve trust and credibility in your brand. Building your audience can improve conversion rates on existing traffic.

Social media generates leads for one third of the cost—for example, a social media campaign can increase reach and fuel demand generation. Social media is great for generating leads with gated content. 85% of consumers say they will change their shopping behaviour in response to social media content, “conversations and relationships are currency, it’s time to start cashing in.”

Social networking is the most popular online activity, why wouldn’t you take part in this? According to iMedia 70% of marketers say social media marketing has increased their brand awareness. Increase your brand awareness, grow your audience and communicate with customers affectively. Social Media allows for real-time connections, which is highly beneficial towards creating authentic relationships. Time is of the essence, and the longer you wait, the more you have to lose. Social Media is about building relationships, and you have to start this process now. 

Remember that if social media marketing is executed properly that it will lead to more customers, more traffic and more conversions.

Looking for an exceptional social media consult? Someone who can get you started and has the results to prove she's a success at this? I can guarantee results. Contact me, Tara Chloe Dusanj @ tarachloe3@gmail.com or 604-764-2669.

The Influencer Marketing Miracle on 34th Street

The classic Christmas movie, Miracle on 34th Street bears one of the most powerful marketing lessons of all-time.

The Santa Claus in the film is working at Macy's department store. When he doesn't have what the customer wants, he sends them to shop at competitors. If Macy's doesn't carry the item, or if a competitor is selling it for less, the Santa Claus tells people where they can get the best value.

This reality upsets the toy department manager, until Mr. Macy is forced to embrace the radical new policy when he gets hundreds of telegrams from people expressing their gratitude and appreciation of an establishment that would place customers in front of their profit. The store quickly becomes the talk of the town, and the sales flourish. Not only is this is a valuable lesson in customer service, but it is also a lesson about Influencer Marketing.The Santa Claus in this film highlights the power of word-of-mouth Marketing. A popular study by McKinsey discovered that "marketing-induced consumer-to-consumer word of mouth generates more than twice the sales of paid advertising." Those acquired through this type of advertising, had a 37 percent higher retention rate. Influencer Marketing provides the wonderful opportunity for brands to leverage the impact of word-of-mouth through personalities that their customers already admire and follow. 

The Macy's Santa Claus is showing the benefit of B2B relationships. In the B2C market, Sprout Social reports that 74% of consumers look for social brand and product recommendations as an imperative aspect of their customer journey. Corporations prosper largely from trusted voices who make their way through the vast B2B products and services market. If we give Company A business then company A might thank us by giving us some business back. If we Tweet about how great Company A is doing, maybe they will do the same thing back. Instead of working against Company A,it appears more beneficial to work with them. Creating these kinds of connections can improve business, but also customer relationships, who feel that you truly care about their concerns and needs and not just your own profit. As an establishment you thrive to be an expert in your field, which means people will trust your suggestions. You have a lot of impact, and you should use this to create connections in your community. Reach out to like-minded establishments, let them know you'd be happy to work together. 

This is the heart of what Influencer Marketing is all about. Showing regards for others, who will in turn show regard for you. Expressing the faith that you have in a product or service, in the hopes that people around you will be influenced by your good experience and give it a try. The theme of this is worked throughout Miracle on 34th Street, as it's the word-of-mouth regarding the Macy's Santa, which makes him so popular in the first place. People experienced a good thing and they wanted to share it with others. The power of influence is strong, and when properly exercised can have massive results.  

There are many advantages to making B2B connections. For one, you get a new target group which means additional revenue. This allows you to pursue new sales opportunities, but most importantly it puts you in connection with industry leaders. You can engage with industry leaders through social media, blogs, forums, Linkedin, events, interviews, or by asking them to submit guest articles to your publications. Setting up these relationships is an asset towards seeing what other people in your industry are doing, and the service they provide. It is suggested that you provide rewards for influencers who talk about your brand: invitations, paid articles, social media spotlights. It is also important to team up with other industries, that compliment you, but are not just like you. Perhaps you can trade off service recommendations for the other? Perhaps they provide products that go hand in hand with what you are offering? Regardless, this provides you with an interesting perspective for your content, added data sources, and fresh referrals that haven't been picked-over. Additionally, it gives you a platform for communication that your competitors likely are not using yet. 

Naturally, the Macy's Santa is a influencer towards embracing new Marketing strategies. One like Influencer Marketing, which is statistically proven to be more affective than paid advertising.