How could this be?
In this week's Crain's New York Business list of "50 Most Influential Women of NYC" there are no Latinas and only a total of 3 diverse women featured.
Author, Speaker, Consultant and close friend Mariela Dabbah writes in her blog that she has sent a letter to the editor (one of many she says she has sent the last few months after every list they publish!.
Below is the blog Mariela wrote that includes the letter to Crain's and the names of several Latinas (of the many out there) that she feels should've been on the list.
Click here:
http://blog.marieladabbah.com/?p=437
The Picaflor Post: Career advice. Media strategies. English and Spanish language markets.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Monday, July 4, 2011
To use a cover letter or not...
A recent blog, painting a grim picture of the need for cover letters by David Gaspin, formerly head of talent acquisition for Conde Nast got a lot of play in the past week.
At first I was taken a back in reading a quote from Gaspin in Media Jobs Daily: “9 out of 10 recruiters that I know don’t read them, and 10 out of 10 recruiters that I know don’t pass them along to hiring managers….”
After saying something like “whah, whah, what!!??”, I visited Mr. Gaspin’s blog site and found that after condemning cover letters – he actually had some sound advice.
From his Blog:
1. Cover letters don’t matter.
2. A cover letter will never get you a job, but it can certainly lose you one.
Hmmm. I disagree with point #1, but see the truth in point #2. As someone who has read many cover letters (as a hiring manager), I can tell you that a poorly written cover letter will often deflate a strong resume. Usually the problem is that the writer either did not understand the purpose of a cover letter (so, the focus was missed), rushed in writing it (and so, used poor grammar), used it as a tool in walking the reader through every detail of their experience (which is best used in an interview conversation) or was repetitive (a longer version of their resume.
Here’s great advice from Gaspin on making cover letters better:
1. Address it to the correct company. Please.
2. Keep it brief. No more than a couple of well thought out paragraphs.
3. Outline two things: why you want the job and why you’re right for the job.
4. Don’t repeat your resume. They’ve already read that.
5. Try to keep it conversational – this is your chance to show your personality.
6. Don’t show too much personality. Failed attempts at humor are deadly in cover letters.
7. If your personality sucks, ignore #6 and stick to a very business-like tone.
8. Read it out loud. If it doesn’t sound good out loud, it doesn’t look good in writing.
9. Proofread it. Check for spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure. Spellcheck is your worst enemy. Just because there are no red squiggly lines doesn’t mean it’s right.
10. Proofread it. Again. You missed something the first time. Trust me.
Gaspin’s blog: http://hrdave.com/2011/06/28/opinions-are-like-cover-letters-%e2%80%93-everybody-has-one-and-most-of-them-are-wrong/
So, while the headline on articles written about Gaspin’s blog on cover letters were a little bit on the insignificance of them….I’d say – the blog is more about the pitfalls of a poorly written one.
I will add that some candidates should consider writing a biography of their experience. It reinforces and elaborates the line items in your resume and keeps you from adding information in your cover letter that shouldn’t be there. Similarly to the advice on resumes and cover letters – keep it brief and on point. One to three paragraphs for each position you outlined in your resume and be sure to use specific examples.
For example (for the position of News Director/Vice President):
In my resume…..
• Production: Administered the mission and tactical operations of a multiplatform local content organization (News, Entertainment, Commercial).
• Marketing: Lead the strategic development of all viewer-focused marketing to build the Telemundo 47 brand and drive audience tune-in/usage of its various platforms.
• Sales: Conducted innovative multiplatform initiatives to support Sales team in generating revenue (product integration, promotions and sponsorships).
• Network: Conceptualized the production of content relevant to a national audience for News, Sports and Entertainment Programming.
• Programming: Authored long format specials (domestic, international), assembled the production team and pitched new revenue making packages.
• Operations: Directed the investing and implementation of new technology to improve on-air product, comply with operational financial goals and enhance the skills of personnel
In my biography….
As Vice President of News for NBC Universal’s Spanish language television station Telemundo 47, Balta turned a traditional broadcast news operation into a multiple platform content center that produces news, entertainment, specials and commercial productions for major markets in the U.S. and Central and South America.
In converting WNJU into a multifaceted production center, Mr. Balta was key in meeting the operational targets of a big media company to meet the challenges of a changing industry and economy. In Sales, he was instrumental in the creation of new streams of revenue as well as maintaining current clients. He implemented new marketing tools that strengthened T47’s brand. Mr. Balta’s investment of new technology and training improved the station’s product and employee skills.
Specific to his duties as News Director, Balta lead a team of more than 80 journalists in the planning, promoting and production of newscasts (morning to late evening, seven days a week) which were recognized with multiple nominations by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences and (among many of the awards) achieved 3 “Emmys” for “Best Local Newscast” (out of the 7 consecutive nominations).
In the end, be sure you understand the purpose of (resumes, cover letters, bios) and how to focus them properly in your strategic job search.
It’s never a “one size fits all”. When you take your time (as you should) in properly writing your story – it shows.
As always, please feel free to ask questions and leave your feedback.
Hugo
At first I was taken a back in reading a quote from Gaspin in Media Jobs Daily: “9 out of 10 recruiters that I know don’t read them, and 10 out of 10 recruiters that I know don’t pass them along to hiring managers….”
After saying something like “whah, whah, what!!??”, I visited Mr. Gaspin’s blog site and found that after condemning cover letters – he actually had some sound advice.
From his Blog:
1. Cover letters don’t matter.
2. A cover letter will never get you a job, but it can certainly lose you one.
Hmmm. I disagree with point #1, but see the truth in point #2. As someone who has read many cover letters (as a hiring manager), I can tell you that a poorly written cover letter will often deflate a strong resume. Usually the problem is that the writer either did not understand the purpose of a cover letter (so, the focus was missed), rushed in writing it (and so, used poor grammar), used it as a tool in walking the reader through every detail of their experience (which is best used in an interview conversation) or was repetitive (a longer version of their resume.
Here’s great advice from Gaspin on making cover letters better:
1. Address it to the correct company. Please.
2. Keep it brief. No more than a couple of well thought out paragraphs.
3. Outline two things: why you want the job and why you’re right for the job.
4. Don’t repeat your resume. They’ve already read that.
5. Try to keep it conversational – this is your chance to show your personality.
6. Don’t show too much personality. Failed attempts at humor are deadly in cover letters.
7. If your personality sucks, ignore #6 and stick to a very business-like tone.
8. Read it out loud. If it doesn’t sound good out loud, it doesn’t look good in writing.
9. Proofread it. Check for spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure. Spellcheck is your worst enemy. Just because there are no red squiggly lines doesn’t mean it’s right.
10. Proofread it. Again. You missed something the first time. Trust me.
Gaspin’s blog: http://hrdave.com/2011/06/28/opinions-are-like-cover-letters-%e2%80%93-everybody-has-one-and-most-of-them-are-wrong/
So, while the headline on articles written about Gaspin’s blog on cover letters were a little bit on the insignificance of them….I’d say – the blog is more about the pitfalls of a poorly written one.
I will add that some candidates should consider writing a biography of their experience. It reinforces and elaborates the line items in your resume and keeps you from adding information in your cover letter that shouldn’t be there. Similarly to the advice on resumes and cover letters – keep it brief and on point. One to three paragraphs for each position you outlined in your resume and be sure to use specific examples.
For example (for the position of News Director/Vice President):
In my resume…..
• Production: Administered the mission and tactical operations of a multiplatform local content organization (News, Entertainment, Commercial).
• Marketing: Lead the strategic development of all viewer-focused marketing to build the Telemundo 47 brand and drive audience tune-in/usage of its various platforms.
• Sales: Conducted innovative multiplatform initiatives to support Sales team in generating revenue (product integration, promotions and sponsorships).
• Network: Conceptualized the production of content relevant to a national audience for News, Sports and Entertainment Programming.
• Programming: Authored long format specials (domestic, international), assembled the production team and pitched new revenue making packages.
• Operations: Directed the investing and implementation of new technology to improve on-air product, comply with operational financial goals and enhance the skills of personnel
In my biography….
As Vice President of News for NBC Universal’s Spanish language television station Telemundo 47, Balta turned a traditional broadcast news operation into a multiple platform content center that produces news, entertainment, specials and commercial productions for major markets in the U.S. and Central and South America.
In converting WNJU into a multifaceted production center, Mr. Balta was key in meeting the operational targets of a big media company to meet the challenges of a changing industry and economy. In Sales, he was instrumental in the creation of new streams of revenue as well as maintaining current clients. He implemented new marketing tools that strengthened T47’s brand. Mr. Balta’s investment of new technology and training improved the station’s product and employee skills.
Specific to his duties as News Director, Balta lead a team of more than 80 journalists in the planning, promoting and production of newscasts (morning to late evening, seven days a week) which were recognized with multiple nominations by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences and (among many of the awards) achieved 3 “Emmys” for “Best Local Newscast” (out of the 7 consecutive nominations).
In the end, be sure you understand the purpose of (resumes, cover letters, bios) and how to focus them properly in your strategic job search.
It’s never a “one size fits all”. When you take your time (as you should) in properly writing your story – it shows.
As always, please feel free to ask questions and leave your feedback.
Hugo
Friday, July 1, 2011
The Key to Advance Your Career
Hello.
Here is an excellent blog from a close friend and experienced professional: Mariela Dabbah.
In "La clave para avanzar en tu carrera" she soundly illustrates the importance of having a network in order to positively and productively manage your career. Her focus is on women in the workplace -- but the advice is universal.
click here:
http://www.tuvozentuvida.com/2011/06/30/como-avanzar-en-tu-carrera/?a_dgi=aolshare_twitter
Here is an excellent blog from a close friend and experienced professional: Mariela Dabbah.
In "La clave para avanzar en tu carrera" she soundly illustrates the importance of having a network in order to positively and productively manage your career. Her focus is on women in the workplace -- but the advice is universal.
click here:
http://www.tuvozentuvida.com/2011/06/30/como-avanzar-en-tu-carrera/?a_dgi=aolshare_twitter
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Will US Born Latinos and acculturated Hispanics retain cultural identity over time?
Here's a very interesting study.
While the new Census identifies the population boom led by the Hispanic community, it comes short in identifying the unique differences in language and background. You just can't place all Hispanics in one bucket.
The challenge for marketers- as you point out will be how to target a specific group who have...several targets which change dramatically over 50 states. How do you do that effectively and efficiently?
Click here for more: http://network.nshp.org/profiles/blogs/will-us-born-latinos-and-1?xg_source=activity
While the new Census identifies the population boom led by the Hispanic community, it comes short in identifying the unique differences in language and background. You just can't place all Hispanics in one bucket.
The challenge for marketers- as you point out will be how to target a specific group who have...several targets which change dramatically over 50 states. How do you do that effectively and efficiently?
Click here for more: http://network.nshp.org/profiles/blogs/will-us-born-latinos-and-1?xg_source=activity
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Thinking about growing your business?? Think Hispanics
Here's an interesting article (and link) about the social revolution in this country -- led by the increasing Hispanic population. It also illustrates the economic power.
Excerpt:
If it hasn’t sunk in, you’re thick or, possibly, racist. Either way, you’ve blown a huge opportunity: America is becoming a Latin nation. That’s the headline of the 2010 U.S. Census.
There are 50.5 million Hispanics in the U.S., 15 million more than 10 years ago; they now make up 16 percent of the total U.S. population. That means vast and growing economic power, with Hispanics expected to spend $1.2 trillion in 2012.
Click here for the complete article:
Here's an interesting article (and link) about the social revolution in this country -- led by the increasing Hispanic population. It also illustrates the economic power.
Excerpt:
If it hasn’t sunk in, you’re thick or, possibly, racist. Either way, you’ve blown a huge opportunity: America is becoming a Latin nation. That’s the headline of the 2010 U.S. Census.
There are 50.5 million Hispanics in the U.S., 15 million more than 10 years ago; they now make up 16 percent of the total U.S. population. That means vast and growing economic power, with Hispanics expected to spend $1.2 trillion in 2012.
Click here for the complete article:
http://www.adweek.com/news/television/latin-influence-132893?page=1
Excerpt:
If it hasn’t sunk in, you’re thick or, possibly, racist. Either way, you’ve blown a huge opportunity: America is becoming a Latin nation. That’s the headline of the 2010 U.S. Census.
There are 50.5 million Hispanics in the U.S., 15 million more than 10 years ago; they now make up 16 percent of the total U.S. population. That means vast and growing economic power, with Hispanics expected to spend $1.2 trillion in 2012.
Click here for the complete article:
Here's an interesting article (and link) about the social revolution in this country -- led by the increasing Hispanic population. It also illustrates the economic power.
Excerpt:
If it hasn’t sunk in, you’re thick or, possibly, racist. Either way, you’ve blown a huge opportunity: America is becoming a Latin nation. That’s the headline of the 2010 U.S. Census.
There are 50.5 million Hispanics in the U.S., 15 million more than 10 years ago; they now make up 16 percent of the total U.S. population. That means vast and growing economic power, with Hispanics expected to spend $1.2 trillion in 2012.
Click here for the complete article:
http://www.adweek.com/news/television/latin-influence-132893?page=1
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Why less is more when it comes to resumes
Here's an interesting article on why specializing your resume is better than the blanket the market with as many resumes as possible!
click:
http://blog.simplyhired.com/2011/06/career-advice-how-to-get-more-interviews-while-sending-less-resumes.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=jun28
click:
http://blog.simplyhired.com/2011/06/career-advice-how-to-get-more-interviews-while-sending-less-resumes.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=jun28
Monday, June 27, 2011
Three Tips For A Better Resume
As a member of the senior management team these nearly past 10 years – I have seen many resumes.
Some are outstanding and some are outdated.
Here are three ideas to keep your resume memorable.
1. Title: The title is always your name followed by your contact information. It’s obvious, right? You want to make sure the employer knows who you are and how to get a hold of you. But really --- make it into a marquis…after all you deserve “top billing”. I can’t tell you how many times candidates down played their name, almost as if embarrassed. You need to be your biggest fan. Be proud and self assured in your accomplishments. Your name – is a page turner. The size and font you choose says a lot about who you are. I’m partial to Times New Roman, font 18 – bold….but I am a little conservative.
2. Objective: The next line is your objective. This is a two to three sentence paragraph that specifically talks to the job you are going after. Too many times candidates make the mistake of writing a dreamy, utopian objective about an ideal job in media. What you need to do is be specific about the job you are applying for. For Example, if you are applying for a Newscast Line Producer opportunity – make sure that your objective speaks specifically about how your experience is the right fit. As a Newscast Line Producer you will be expected to have sound editorial experience, strong writing skills, manage an often stressful control room environment and have excellent communication/interpersonal skills (to name a few). If your objective does not speak to what they’re looking for….then you left the hiring manager on page two – when you want them to go to the meat of your book (resume)…the list of your accomplishments. Here’s a tip….use the “skills” section of the job description posted to help you write your specialized objective.
3. Experience: When you list your experience – be very concise, use examples and again be sure it speaks to the specifics of the job description. Each line should be exactly that….one line (and no more than 2 lines). You are writing to a hiring manager who understands the line of work you do…so you don’t need to go on and on about what your duties are as a Newscast Line Producer (to keep with the earlier example). What the employer is looking for are “real life” examples of your experience (which if you make it pass the screening process will be part of the conversation you will have). Again – the job description itself will help you write your experience. Think about what they are looking for and see if there are examples in your experience that are similar.
In the end, what I hope you take away is that your resume cannot be a “one size fits all” document. Your resume needs to change depending on what position you are going for. And if you are like me (a fortunate person who has a diverse background of experience)….don’t be afraid to go off the chronological order of your experience. I am someone who is very interesting in returning to cable news. My time with MSNBC was in 2010 and 1999. When I go for positions with cable news media companies – my time with MSNBC is what I place front and center on my resume.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to me.
And as always – your feedback is welcomed and appreciated.
Hugo
Some are outstanding and some are outdated.
Here are three ideas to keep your resume memorable.
1. Title: The title is always your name followed by your contact information. It’s obvious, right? You want to make sure the employer knows who you are and how to get a hold of you. But really --- make it into a marquis…after all you deserve “top billing”. I can’t tell you how many times candidates down played their name, almost as if embarrassed. You need to be your biggest fan. Be proud and self assured in your accomplishments. Your name – is a page turner. The size and font you choose says a lot about who you are. I’m partial to Times New Roman, font 18 – bold….but I am a little conservative.
2. Objective: The next line is your objective. This is a two to three sentence paragraph that specifically talks to the job you are going after. Too many times candidates make the mistake of writing a dreamy, utopian objective about an ideal job in media. What you need to do is be specific about the job you are applying for. For Example, if you are applying for a Newscast Line Producer opportunity – make sure that your objective speaks specifically about how your experience is the right fit. As a Newscast Line Producer you will be expected to have sound editorial experience, strong writing skills, manage an often stressful control room environment and have excellent communication/interpersonal skills (to name a few). If your objective does not speak to what they’re looking for….then you left the hiring manager on page two – when you want them to go to the meat of your book (resume)…the list of your accomplishments. Here’s a tip….use the “skills” section of the job description posted to help you write your specialized objective.
3. Experience: When you list your experience – be very concise, use examples and again be sure it speaks to the specifics of the job description. Each line should be exactly that….one line (and no more than 2 lines). You are writing to a hiring manager who understands the line of work you do…so you don’t need to go on and on about what your duties are as a Newscast Line Producer (to keep with the earlier example). What the employer is looking for are “real life” examples of your experience (which if you make it pass the screening process will be part of the conversation you will have). Again – the job description itself will help you write your experience. Think about what they are looking for and see if there are examples in your experience that are similar.
In the end, what I hope you take away is that your resume cannot be a “one size fits all” document. Your resume needs to change depending on what position you are going for. And if you are like me (a fortunate person who has a diverse background of experience)….don’t be afraid to go off the chronological order of your experience. I am someone who is very interesting in returning to cable news. My time with MSNBC was in 2010 and 1999. When I go for positions with cable news media companies – my time with MSNBC is what I place front and center on my resume.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to me.
And as always – your feedback is welcomed and appreciated.
Hugo
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)