Public Speaking Course in Manchester

Employment King deliver public speaking courses in Manchester (live) and to the whole world (virtually).

Virtual public speaking is an in-demand skill due to an increase in use of virtual meetings, video job interviews and online recruitment events and conferences.

Full Day Public Speaking Workshop

During the full-day workshop you will learn the 3 key elements to become a confident public speaker:

“Mind, Body and Voice”.

Mind.

Confidence creates a charismatic speaker.

If you are filled with anxiety and fear the though of speaking in front of others, you will never persuade, inform or entertain an audience.

  • Learn how to overcome your inner anxiety and your inner critique
  • Learn how to remove any negative self-talk that kills your confidence
  • Learn how to feel confident and powerful when speaking on stage

Body.

Poster is power.

The way you stand, move and express yourself creates stage authority or stage fright.

  • Understand how to use the mind-body cycle to create confidence
  • Understand how to communicate with gestures, posture and expressions, reinforcing your verbal communication
  • Understand how to create your own power voice to be seen as a compelling speaker

Voice.

Its not what you say, its how you say it.

Motivational speakers engage the audience with the rhythm of their voice, entertaining crowds with their volume, pace and tonality.

  • Create your own speaker voice that will win over an audience
  • Create authority with a confident communication style
  • Create memorable moments through masterful oration

Who should attend a public speaker workshop?

  • Anyone who constantly fails job interviews
  • Anyone who presents on a regular basis in work
  • Anyone who has a big speech or presentation coming up
  • Anyone who lack self-esteem and personal confidence
  • Anyone who is looking for a self-development opportunity

Request a list of upcoming dates for the public speaking workshop via the form below:

    Your Name (required)

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    Gen Z and Careers

    Generation Z – Gen Z people, are those born between 1997 and 2012.

    As the first Gen Zs start to progress into the workforce, we ask – “what jobs will Gen Zs apply for?”

    First, to understand the jobs that Gen Zs will have, you need to understand the common barriers Gen Zs will face during their career progression.

    In this article we will cover:

    • The future job market
    • Growth job sectors
    • The global talent market
    • Creating multiple income streams
    • How do I choose a job

    The future job market

    Technology, globalisation, and AI have created a fast-changing job market.

    In the next ten years, Gen Zs will be applying for jobs that currently don’t exist.

    With the likes of Elong Musk and Richard Branson designing, building, and launching their own rockets, jobs in space is no longer a futuristic idea. It’s happening right now.

    Other job roles will disappear.

    Some will simply no longer be required, but others will be automated – completed by robots. A Fortune recent article said that: “robots will replace 40% of jobs in the next 15 years”.

    This could include many low to medium-skilled jobs. Already, Amazon-fresh has opened it’s just walk out’ shop, allowing shoppers to purchase goods without having to wait in a long queue to pay for their groceries, removing the need to hire checkout operators.

    Robots and technology will be used in dangerous industries such as fire fighting, mining, and on the battlefield.

    In many of these sectors, robots and humans will work side by side with the machine tackling the most hazardous part of the task.

    In an article earlier this year on The Guardian, they explained how: “Thirty thousand “robot soldiers” could form an integral part of the British army in the 2030s”.

    Already, AI is used in HR (Human Resources) reducing the number of humans required to complete business as usual tasks. AI is employed to scan job applicants’ application forms and even to conduct online job interviews.

    Growth job sectors.

    To predict what jobs will be available for Gen Z job seekers, forecasters look at future demands, and what jobs will be required to produced the ‘demand’.

    Sarah Dillon in a recent article on the ladders listed 10 possible growth sectors

    1. Data science
    2. Software development
    3. Healthcare
    4. Artificial Intelligence
    5. Mental health
    6. Sales
    7. Digital designers
    8. Marketing
    9. Finance
    10. Education

    Some experts believe that a new industrial revolution is on its way.

    With AI, nanotechnology, genetics, automation, 3D printing, science, and all things STEM creating new ways to solve problems, the world is changing at a rapid rate.

    HR Technologist explained the 5 drivers of change:

    • The rise of technology
    • Social and demographic chnages
    • Connectedness
    • A global talent market
    • Man-Machine collaberation

    The global talent market.

    The job market has always been competitive.

    The difference fro Gen Z job applicants is the number of people applying for the same advertised position.

    Prior to the launch of online applications, job seekers had to handwrite a lengthy job application form. The time this took, as well as the number of hours search then ‘job column’ in a newspaper or traveling to business to physically hand-in your CV, resulted in a lower number of applications per vacancy.

    The average number of applications per vacancy was around 25.

    Once online applications became the new way to apply for job roles, career professionals, uploading CVs and copying and pasting application forms, could quickly apply for a number of different roles in quick succession.

    Today, the average number of applications per role is around 250. But for global companies; Google, Microsoft, Telsa, the average number of applications is in the thousands.

    To summarise, the job marketing is changing.

    But this is nothing new. The job market is a living beast, always shifting, evolving based on a number of drivers of change which can also include global economics, customer demand, and technology.

    These drivers of change can help Gen Z job seekers predict future job growth sectors.

    Applying for a position is more competitive than ever before. And applicants may be interviewed by robots not humans.

    This new era of work is leading Gen Z career professionals to have multiple income streams.

    Creating multiple income streams.

    Having multiple jobs or incomes is the new norm.

    Gen Z’s have grown up with their bedrooms filled with technology, with a virtual set of friends, and half their life spent online.

    For the Gen Z, having a virtual job, either as a second income or a full-time position is an obvious solution.

    The online position may include:

    • Creating a second income from a blog, podcast or youtube channel
    • Selling goods on an Etsy channel is relatively easy, often with low overheads
    • Offering services on fiver or getting finacial backing for an idea or product through kickstarter can create massive earnings

    The days of working in one organization for life have long gone, even among the older workforce. The banking crisis and Covid have shown how unexpected events can kill careers.

    Young people have many interests, many skills, many options. Having multiple jobs can be creative, challenging and creates choice.

    If one job doesn’t work out, the Gen Z worker can leave while still having an income from a second or third career. 

    Gen Z understands the global market and will work for companies in various countries.

    How to choose a job?

    Salary is still a career motivator for many people.

    But Gen Zs are also interested in the ethics of an organization, their values, and mission.

    Whereas an older career professional may have the belief that you should accept the job based on the salary alone, Gen Z job applicants will reflect on their work-life balance, the environment they will be working in, what freedom they will have in the job, and if their personal values meet the values of the employer.

    Evolve the mind book on Amazon

    This new outlook affects employers.

    On average, career professionals only stay in a job for an average of 3-5 years. Compared to the Gen Zs grandparents who would have had a ‘job for life’.

    This is why employers, especially in sectors where there are more jobs than applicants, or in growth sectors, or industries with an aging workforce, will work hard to increase staff retention.

    This is why tech companies looking to recruit the youth, have flexible working hours. In these companies, you can bring your dog to work, have a nap in a ‘sleeping bay’ or take a duvet day whenever you require one.

    How to Find Your First Job After University or College

     

    How to Find Your First Job After University or College

     

    Landing that first job after university or college can be a daunting experience. Eager to find work, many graduates settle for jobs that don’t require a degree, which puts them in an adverse position and can be detrimental for their future careers.

    However, you can take control of this process early on and give your career chances for a positive start by implementing the following strategies.

    Start Well Ahead

    To raise the odds of landing a job that suits your skills and knowledge soon after you’ve graduated, you should mobilize yourself during your senior year.

    There are several things you can do during this phase of your life:

    Create a LinkedIn profile. Having a profile on LinkedIn is a good way to network and form meaningful connections in your industry of choice. Include your education details, extra-curricular activities, accolades and awards, skills and any working experience you have. Join industry-specific groups to follow the latest trends, and engage in discussions.

    Have a personal blog. Present yourself to your potential employers by writing about the topics you’re most interested in professionally and your personal interest as well. WordPress, Wix and Squarespace are quick and easy solutions to start building your own personal brand.


    Find a mentor. Most of the students rely on their parents, relatives, friends or professors for mentorship, but unless they are in the career you want to pursue, look further. Use your own or your parents’ connections to reach someone working in a niche you’re interested in.

    Get an internship early on. Finish as many internships as you can, and try to have at least one in a company with wide brand recognition, as it will look good in your resume. It will also help you brush up on your skills and make connections, and it might also lead to a job offer.

    Be Active

    As you’ve probably identified some of the companies you would like to start your career at, begin with browsing their websites for an employment section, and check whether they have any options for graduates or students.

    Broaden your search to the industry-specific job boards to find any new job listings, and generate more job leads.

    You can also check whether your college has alumni working in those companies, and connect with them in order to get advice on your approach. Such connections can be crucial for landing a job, so don’t be shy about reaching out.

    Tailor Your Resume and Your Cover Letter

    Once you start applying for the positions you’re interested in, make sure your resume is highly professional and up-to-date.

    Both your resume and cover letter should be tailored to fit the description of every position you apply for and should reflect that you understand both what the company and the position are about.

    Many employers nowadays use software that scans applications for keywords, and if your resume doesn’t contain them, you can end up disqualified even if you have all the skills required.  

    You will raise your odds significantly if you tweak each one of your applications to mirror the language used in the description of the job posting.

     

    Interview questions and answers

    As your recruiters are going to check you out on social media too, make sure that by now you have established your professional online presence. If you think there is a chance your potential employers could find something embarrassing on your accounts, consider changing your settings to private.

    Still, sending your resume and your cover letter is often not enough to get you a job interview, let alone a job offer.

    Identify whether you can find any connections to people working at the company, no matter how distant, to raise your chances.

    Prepare for the Interview

    Once you’ve got your interview scheduled, do your best to prepare well.

    You’ve done some research before applying, but now it’s time to dig deeper into it. Get as many details as you can on the company, its history, background, values, products and services.

     

     

    Also, broaden your research to competitors, and understand the position the company holds at the market.

    In addition to grasping the relevant information that you can use during the interview, consider the following:

    Prepare responses to the most common interview questions. Have your answers ready on your skills, strengths and weaknesses, as well as about your motivation for working in the industry and the company. As your main goal is to shine, working with a career coach can help you determine what you should emphasize during the interview and effectively prepare for it.

    Choose your outfit. For a great first impression make an effort to determine the dress code in the company and dress appropriately.

    Watch your body language. Apart from your clothing, your body language plays a significant role too. Make sure you stand up straight, give firm handshakes and smile.

    Check the location and directions beforehand. You don’t want to decrease your chances of success by being late for your job interview.

    Show your interest. You’ll make a better first impression if you show interest in the company, so prepare your own questions beforehand too. Make your questions specific and don’t ask things you can find out on your own, browsing the net.

    Don’t be disappointed if the interview doesn’t land you a job. Think of it as an experience you can learn from. It’s a good idea to get in touch with the interviewers and ask them about your performance so that you can get a clear idea about the areas you should polish.

    It might take some time to find a perfect first job, so try to keep your positive state of mind and your energy up during the job hunt.

    by Michael Deane

    Michael has been working in marketing for almost a decade and has worked with a huge range of clients, which has made him knowledgeable on many different subjects. He has recently rediscovered a passion for writing and hopes to make it a daily habit. You can read more of Michael’s work at Qeedle.

     

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    Why Women Should Consider Pursuing a Career in a Trade

     

    Why Women Should Consider Pursuing a Career in a Trade

     

    The manual trades industries have been around for years and years, however, some of the most highly sought after tradespeople such as plumbers, electricians and building workers are in shortage in the UK. Part of the reason for this is the lack of women going into this field, with women currently representing only 6% of skilled trade workers in the UK. Manual trades provide a career with many benefits such as rewarding work, a good salary and work-life balance so it’s a huge shame that such few women choose to pursue a career in a skilled trade.

    The team at KindWater have looked at the many benefits that different trade roles provide workers and why more women should consider pursuing a role in manual trades.

     

    What Trade Roles Are Available to Me?

    • Electrician (Average salary: £30,784)
    • Plumber (Average salary: £29,799)
    • Roofer (Average salary: £24,439)
    • Bricklayer (Average salary: £25,201)
    • Carpenter (Average salary: £26,416)
    • Painter (Average salary: £24,039)

    Photo by Ascel Kadhem on Unsplash

     

    The Perks of Working in a Trade


    You gain immediate industry experience

    In a lot of industries, getting your foot in the door and gaining valuable experience is often one of the biggest challenges you’ll face, especially at the start. Luckily in most trade industries, it’s pretty easy to gain experience once you’ve had your training or received the qualifications you need. And because most skilled trades are in such high demand, it’s easy enough to get your foot in the door and start building experience right away.

     

    Interview questions and answers

    You’ll earn a good salary

    Earning a stable salary at the start of your career is rare, especially for university graduates. Many graduates even end up working for free whilst trying to gain experience in a new industry. This is one of the main benefits of working in a trade role, as from your starting salary is above the average and remains stable throughout your career. In the UK, tradespeople are earning, on average, £10,000 more than most graduate workers and since most skilled trades don’t require a degree, you won’t have all the student debt to pay off either.

     

    Skilled trades workers are in high demand

    Today’s job market is more competitive than ever and being able to get stable work is a challenge for many. Training in a skilled trade, however, pretty much guarantees you stable work throughout your career. There is currently a huge demand for trades workers and lots of employment opportunities for those trained in these skills. 

    Trade work requires practical skills that can’t be done by technology, so there will always be a demand for these roles in the future. Innovation company Nesta published a report revealing what the job market will look like in 2030, and trade careers, such as engineers, are amongst those most highly in demand – especially considering the rise of automation.

     

    You can become your own boss

    If you think you might one day want to own your own business, learning a trade could be a great way to do so. Over time and with experience, you’ll slowly become an expert in your industry and be well-equipped to manage a team of your own. Not only does being a business owner means that you get to manage your own schedule, but it’s also a great way to progress on the job ladder and make a higher than average salary. Owning your own business is also a great way to do things differently and make a positive change in your industry.

     

    It doesn’t require a degree

    Going to university is incredibly popular; 350,000 young people enrolled in university courses last year. However, university certainly isn’t the only option for school leavers and with the huge amount of debt it produces, it’s often not the best option for many people. 

    Pursuing a trade doesn’t require a degree and the skills required can often be gained through studying for a qualification or through an apprenticeship. Often, apprenticeships are paid too, which means you’ll be getting on the job ladder earlier than most and building up your savings.

     

    Every day at work is different

    When you’re practising a trade, no two days at work are the same. You get to work with a range of different clients and work on a range of new projects. You’ll meet lots of different people and learn new things all the time. It’s also a social environment to be in where you’ll be around lots of like-minded people and make friends for life.

     



    Advice to Women Starting Out in a Trade

     

    Stand your ground

    Unfortunately, the disparity in the number of male to female workers in this industry has led to some reports of negative discrimination within the workplace. Don’t let this put you off however since this isn’t everyone’s experience and just something to be aware of. Stand your ground and remember the reasons why you chose to work in this industry. Remembering your goals will help you to stay focused if you ever face negativity from other people in your work.

     

    Negotiating your starting salary

    Women have a tendency to underestimate their professional value but remember that you deserve the same pay as everyone else at your level. When negotiating your starting salary, do some research beforehand so you know that what you’re asking for is reasonable. Also, remember to have a definite figure in your head that you want to ask for. Also, remember to enquire about benefits such as pension and bonuses as these are an important factor to consider within a salary. 

     

    Use it to your advantage

    Being a woman in this male-dominated industry makes you stand out and sets you apart from the competition, so try to use this to your advantage. Your differences are what will make clients remember you and choose you over others.

     

    Making connections

    A big part of working in a trade is getting your name out there and establishing good connections. Keep this in mind early on in your career and never miss an opportunity to exchange numbers with a client and make a connection that could be used for future business.

     

    Sources:

    https://www.electriciancourses4u.co.uk/

    https://www.simplybusiness.co.uk/ 

    https://www.tradeskills4u.co.uk/

    https://gothinkbig.co.uk/

     

    Author bio:

    Katie Myers is an online content writer who creates online content on a range of topics including the environment, careers and home design to name a few. One of her clients KindWater, are water softener experts based in East Anglia. On their blog you will find a range of information all about water quality and the benefits of soft water.

     

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    Tips for Starting a Successful Home Business in Retirement

     

    Tips for Starting a Successful Home Business in Retirement

     

    Retirement can be tough after spending the majority of your life working, especially when a reduced income threatens the lifestyle you’ve become accustomed to. This may be why more and more seniors are starting their own businesses. Whether you’re looking for a fulfilling way to fill your days or produce a little extra cash, starting a home-based business is an excellent idea. The following tips can help you get started on the entrepreneurial path.

    Choose a Business Idea That Excites You

    Coming up with an idea can be the hardest part of starting a business. Fortunately, you have a whole lifetime of experience developing skills and discovering your passions. Use this to generate your business idea. If you have a background in advertising or sales, consider selling items online. If you enjoy a hands-on hobby like landscaping or photography, monetize it by selling your services to locals. You can also write a book, sell courses online, or start a podcast  to share your knowledge with others. Your options are endless!

     

     

     

    If you want to sell things online but don’t have the room or capital to hold inventory, consider dropshipping. Dropshipping allows you to buy individual products from a manufacturer or supplier and ship them directly to your customer. It costs very little to get started because you only pay for products when you make a sale. According to The Next Scoop, dropshipping can be a particularly desirable business model for people who want flexibility—you can work on your dropshipping business while you travel the world! Not only that, but you can automate many parts of your dropshipping business to save time and money. Research products on Oberlo to see what kinds of items you can sell on your dropshipping store.

    Do Some Research

    Before starting any business, it’s important to research your target market and your competitors. Market research involves assessing the demand for your business in your industry. This will ensure that making money with your business is viable and can help you develop the best path to success. Whether or not you’re familiar with doing research online, your local Chamber of Commerce may be the best place to go for in-depth information on your industry. You can also check out specific online forums to learn from like-minded entrepreneurs in your niche.

    Decide What Sets You Apart

    Once you’ve done your homework, you’ll have a better idea of what makes your business unique and valuable compared to your competitors. Can you offer better customer service? Are your goods hand-made? Do you source eco-friendly materials? Think about what sets your business apart.

    If you’re running an ecommerce store, you may not be able to compete against major retailers on price or shipping speeds. You can, however, beat them when it comes to customer satisfaction. Set up social media pages for your business, reply to comments, and do everything you can to keep those customers happy. Home-based businesses are in the perfect position to engage with their customers on a personal level. According to Zendesk, customer satisfaction is essential to business success.

    Interview questions and answers

    Learn About Business Laws and Taxes

    Before you move forward with your business idea, learn about the licenses and permits you need to acquire. First, all home-based businesses must have a business license. You can learn more about this at your local licensing department or tax office. If you’re providing professional services, like haircutting, financial advising, or daycare, you may also need certification or professional licensing. Likewise, you will need a health department permit if you’re selling food or beverages from your home.

    Self-employed seniors also need to know how their home-based business may interfere with their taxes and benefits. For example, you will have to pay social security and Medicare tax on your earnings, even if you’re receiving social security benefits. Remember that you will have to calculate the tax you owe and pay this amount yourself.

    Starting a home-based business is both affordable and accessible, so it’s a great option for seniors limited by a tight budget or mobility problems. With just a small investment, you can turn your passion into a profitable venture. To increase your chances of enjoying small-business success, take your time and do plenty of research before jumping in.

     

    Author: “Carla Lopez kept her entrepreneurial spirit even after retiring a couple of years ago. She created Boomerbig.org for retirees who still desire to work and achieve – a site that offers business resources for people in their golden years.”

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    The Best 10 Salary Negotiations Tips for Women

     

    The Best 10 Salary Negotiations Tips for Women

     

    When it comes to salary, even the most skilled of women can find themselves receiving less than their male colleagues. The tendency for women to earn less merges many generations of gender perceptions with modern business habits. Knowing what these perceptions and habits are can help women take control.

    The campaign for equal pay will continue to march on. In the meantime, here are 10 of the best tips from London negotiation training workshop for women to take their own steps towards securing the salary or raise they deserve.

     

     

     

     

    Stop Falling for Outdated Conventions

    Women are simply less likely to negotiate their salary or raise than men. Historically, men have been taught to view women as gentle, unassertive creatures. Equally, women have been taught to view women—including themselves—that way, too.

     

    Women’s reluctance to assert themselves in the workplace is grounded in social perceptions. The view that women are nurturers who rely on men for their ambition and assertiveness is an outdated concept.

    Knowing the sociology behind female subservience means women can be empowered to turn these conventions on their head. Women can then begin the process of training out centuries-old misconceptions in themselves and others.

    Interview questions and answers

     

    … Or Use Those Conventions to Your Advantage

    As much as the perception of women has improved since the Industrial era, the idea of women as gentle nurturers rather than competitive entrepreneurs is still prevalent. However, smart women can use this perception to their advantage at the negotiating table.

    Rather than going in with a negotiating style that’s more typically viewed as a masculine approach, it can sometimes be advisable for women to approach salary talks with a more community-oriented mindset. This means grounding your reasons for wanting a raise or higher salary to be not just based on your skills, but how your skills can positively affect the company.

         

     

     

    Know Your Skills

    One thing that can make salary negotiations more effective is a strong résumé to use as a foundation. You could be negotiating a starting salary or seeking a raise. Either way, preparing a list of what you bring to the company is important when entering salary talks.

    Remember that talking about your pay from other employers is a topic best avoided. A suitable response if asked about previous salaries is, “it’s confidential.”

    Know Your Worth

    Another bargaining chip with a lot of leverage is knowing what the going rate for your work is. It pays to research how much people with your skills and experience locally are being paid for your job role. Be sure to consider any employee perks you receive that represent a cost saving elsewhere. These could include health insurance and gym memberships. Research the likelihood that others in your role receive these perks, too.

    Entering talks with a strong understanding of how much your skills are worth is an important way to justify your position.

    Aim High

    Once you know what your skills are worth, the next step is establishing your request. Work out the minimum salary you would accept. Base this figure on what others in your profession generally earn. Be careful not to undervalue yourself.

    Consider making your opening position based on the highest figure you come up with. It’s important to be the first suggest a figure to anchor negotiations in your favor. Opening with this higher amount means counteroffers by the employer should revolve around the figure you have in mind.

    Don’t be afraid to push beyond your expectations (while being careful not to be unreasonable). You might be surprised.

     

    Train to Negotiate

    Brushing up on your negotiation skills is an excellent way to find out what your best moves are for negotiating your salary. Knowing youre trained in the most up-to-date theory and techniques is a great confidence booster. Taking a workshop in negotiations, or taking the time to do some self-training online, is a solid approach that complements your research and enables you to plan well.

    Plan and Practice

    Once you’ve planned your approach to your salary negotiation, it’s advisable to think about how you want to present this information. It’s also important to practice with friends or family until you are confident in your message.

    Know every aspect of your plan so you can present your points naturally and confidently.

    Don’t Take a Low Offer as a Final Offer

    Don’t be deterred if the employer first offers you too low a figure. Too often, women accept the first offer as the final offer. Many women will turn down the job without negotiating salary further.

    Sometimes the employer will insist that they are offering the starting salary. Don’t take a low offer as a reflection of your skills, and don’t allow an opportunity for negotiation to pass. Use low offers as jumping-off points for your negotiations.

    Don’t Assume a Higher Offer Is Final, Either

    Often, women feel obligated to just take what is being offered. The female trait of a tendency toward humbleness can cause confusion between what is self-compassion and what is self-indulgence. This confusion can lead to women undervaluing themselves, especially in the workplace.

    Accepting a higher offer because it’s higher than what you were expecting can be a mistake. Negotiation trainers often teach that knowing the signs for when a final offer really is final is crucial when assessing your salary negotiation position. Make sure to read the room. If you sense the “final offer” is more of a bargaining point, don’t be afraid to continue negotiating for an even better offer.

    Know When to Be Quiet

    Sometimes silence really is golden, even when it’s awkward. Don’t feel obligated to fill a silence imposed by employers. Give the employer their turn to talk, allowing them plenty of time.

    Knowing when to be quiet can make or break a negotiation. Often, the employer is considering their next move in the negotiation. Talking could be seen as an interruption.

    Conclusion

    Women in the workplace still have many hurdles to jump when it comes to gender equality. As we continue to make headway socially and professionally, these once seemingly insurmountable obstacles are gradually becoming less so. We may eventually find ourselves on a much leveler playing field.

    For now, employing the above skills from negotiation training can help women negotiate better salaries. Understanding how women are viewed by themselves and by men can help turn salary negotiations in your favor. You can also help pave the way for a future where women won’t need to think twice about negotiating their pay.

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    Career Advice From an Actor

     

    Edward Darling a full-time actor is currently starring in Adam – the history of man, a Manchester Fringe production.

    In today’s interview, I ask Ed’s his advice on becoming an actor 

    Ed Darling Interview 

    Chris: Hi Ed, thank you for joining me today. Let me start by asking you what made you choose the acting profession? 
     
    Ed: I went to an audition one day – almost on a whim – as a kind of personal challenge to myself. I was dealing with a lot of anxiety at the time and wanted to push my comfort-zone. Then I unexpectedly got the part and realised I’d be pushing my comfort zone FAR more than intended… that’s a whole other story, but from there I just kept going, and here we are!
     
    Chris: Wow, great story. I was expecting that this was a childhood dream. It’s interesting really, this ‘doing something on a whim’ is a common way people accidentally fall into a career.  So new actors want to know one thing – how do you find new acting roles?
     
    Ed: You can find new acting roles via casting databases such as Mandy.com & Spotlight, as well as through an agent once you have representation. Social media is also a good place to look for auditions happening locally. 
     
    Chris: And what is the average salary for a new actor per job?
     
    Ed: Average salary? For an actor? Wouldn’t that be nice! There really is no average in the way most careers would have a set salary, each job pays differently & a lot of work – especially when you’re starting out – is going to be un-paid/low-paid. Until you “make it” as a regular in professional theatre, film or TV, every actor has to supplement their income through other means. 
     
    Chris: ha-ha I don’t know why I asked you for an average salary. But it’s good for new actors to realise that starting out as an actor you are likely to do a number of free gigs. I wanted to ask has technology changed how you audition?
     
    Ed: The big tech-change at the minute is “Self Tapes”, which means filming your own audition at home and emailing the video. It does mean less money spent traveling to auditions, but also runs the risk that you’ll spend five hours recording yourself over and over and over to get it just right… then, exhausted, decide the first take was probably the best.
     

    Chris:  Most new actors worry about confidence, do you have techniques to control your nerves?  

     
    Ed: It all comes down to preparation: Firstly in terms of the rehearsal process in the weeks beforehand, where you’ll hopefully have put in the work to learn your lines & stage-movements from heart (otherwise, you deserve to be nervous!). Then secondly your preparation on the day – warming up the voice and body and getting in “the zone” – which means something different for everyone. Personally, I like to enjoy being sociable and feeling the excitement build, then maybe 10-20 minutes before curtains up, I’ll find somewhere quiet to be with my own thoughts, focus on breathing techniques and get into character. 
     
    Chris: In what way has your confidence increased over the years?  
     
    Ed: I went from socially-anxious to performing in front of audiences all over the UK and abroad… so something’s done the trick! Performing under pressure, learning to trust yourself, developing your expressiveness and communication skills, all of these things make acting a unique way to gain confidence. 
     
    Chris: That’s great. Its a kind of like exposure therapy. How can a new actor find an agent
     
    Ed: Generally, you’d either attend a drama school or course, which results in a final “showcase” where agents are invited to attend. Or get involved with local theatre, fringe, acting classes, short films, etc etc, building up your experience and credits, then approach agents directly – ideally with professional headshots and some credits, or a show you can invite them to. 
     
    Chris: What play are you rehearsing at the moment
     
    Ed: I’m currently rehearsing “Adam: The History Of Man”, a newly wrote comedy showing at this summers GM Fringe. It’s immersive-theatre with lots of laughs and some deeper, thoughtful moments. 
     
    It’s also got a big ‘Historical’ angle, which is ideal for me as a huge History geek. The age-old problem with History, is that we can only learn so much from archeology and what evidence remains. There are so many unanswered questions! What if we could bring back ancient man and learn the truth about our past from ‘the horses mouth’? 
     
    Chris: How will you prepare for this role? 
     
    Ed: Ideally, I’d be “going method”, which for this would mean wearing a loincloth and living hand-to-mouth in the wilderness for the next few weeks. Unfortunately, due to budget constraints, this isn’t possible. But I’ll be researching my characters background(s), working on accents, physical movements, and also what they’re like as people – their personalities – are they shy, energetic, aggressive, obedient? Maybe all of the above! 
     
    Chris: ha-ha, I would love to see you living in the wild for a couple of months. Where did you train as an actor?
     
    Ed: I currently train at the Manchester School Of Acting under Mark Hudson. 
     
    Chris: Thank you for joining me today. 
     
    Facebook: Edward Darling
    Instagram @edwardodarling

     

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    Do You Want to Be a Public Speaker?

     

    Today I met with Danny Riley – a Ted X Speaker Coach, Motivational Speaker and Trainer, to find out more about becoming a paid public speaker. 

    I asked to interview Danny because he has the ability to take on new challenges. Currently, Danny is rehearsing for his debut acting role as Professor Peter Potty Potts in Adam – the history of man, a Manchester Fringe production. 

     

    Danny Riley Interview 

    Chris: Danny let me start by asking you what made you choose a career in public speaking?

    Danny: I faced a long-standing fear head on and decided I was deeply passionate about it. 

    Chris: That is something I admire about you, that you take action and face all challenges head-on. The big question that wanna be public speakers want to know is how do you get paid speaking gigs

    Danny: Personally I get paid as a trainer to deliver workshops and talks. Outside of this, I have spoken in schools, colleges, and universities. 

    Chris: As a speaker what is the average salary, let’s say a new speaker could earn?

    Danny: There’s no one answer for this. A teacher is a essentially a public speaker and so is a politician. You can earn as much or as little as people think you’re worth. For keynotes, you can earn £15k or more with the right contacts, content, and competence. 

    Chris: Has technology changed your audiences?

    Danny: I would like to say that public speaking is one of the few remaining forms of entertainment that still hasn’t been effectively digitised. There are very few talks or speeches that have the same gravity online as they do in person. 

    However, I like the way that technology is headed towards creating virtual environments to learn to deliver to AI audiences that can respond your talk. 

     

    Chris: Ted Talks are really popular at the moment and I believe that you are currently coaching a group of TedX speakers? Can you explain what you do as a ted talk coach?

    Danny: I help to break down what a speaker has created and show them new angles of presenting their talks. 

    Chris: That’s really interesting and I totally know what you mean.  Many of the courses I create start off as something completely different. 

    Danny: It’s like photography. Sometimes you see something beautiful and try to take a snap of it. When you look back later it just doesn’t look the same. I help the speakers to get the snapshot they see in their mind onto paper and them help them deliver it to an audience in a polished and effective way. 

    Chris: What qualifications do you have and how have they helped you with your career?

    Danny: I now have a degree, im a chartered manager and CIPD member and I’m studying  towards a qualification in training and coaching. 

    Qualifications help me feel more confident but so far I have to say they haven’t been the thing that’s gotten me any further. A university degree is amazing though. Learning about research and how to cite the work of others is so important. 

    Chris: Before we wrap up can you tell me a little more about your new venture as a first-time actor?

    Danny: I’m working on a play called Adam – the history of man. This will be my acting debut and will be yet another ambition and fear I will have conquered. I wouldn’t have imagined myself doing this seven years ago. 

    I play a genius professor who has just created a breakthrough invention that can bring a caveman into the modern era. 

    It has some good laughs, twists, and turns and most importantly it has some serious conflict! 

    Chris: Thanks for coming in today, its been really interesting to hear about your journey. Where will can people get in contact with you? 

    Danny: Find me on social media: Danny Riley 

     

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    How to Ensure a Successful Career in the Hospitality Industry

     

    Are you thinking of jumping into the hospitality industry? There is a broad spectrum of opportunities, and some statistics indicate the industry is seeing steady growth with no signs of slowing down. What’s more, there is a shortage of staff throughout the industry, meaning the time is ripe for those interested in developing a career in hospitality.

    Deciding on an Avenue

    Oftentimes, people think of hotels and restaurants when they think of hospitality, when, in fact, the hospitality industry is a service-oriented arena with a wide variety of career choices. Basically, all careers supporting tourism fall into the selection pool, from theme parks to transportation and event planning. If you are uncertain of your particular direction, spend some time in locations you might like to work and pay attention to the duties taken on by those in your desired position.

    Building Blocks

    They say there is no greater teacher than experience, and when it comes to working in the hospitality industry, the expression holds true. There is no substitute for hands-on learning in an entry-level position. It allows you to understand the ins and outs of whatever avenue you intend to pursue. Whether you opt to make beds in a hotel or pour coffee in a cafe, it’s a chance to learn what it’s like interacting with your customers, as well as what management practices feel like on the receiving end. You can absorb the mechanics of business directly, seeing how efficiency and customer service come into play from the ground up. With the current climate, a degree is often unnecessary for becoming established in hospitality, but hard work and on-the-job experience will matter in whatever direction you pursue.

    Making a Go

    Are you considering an entrepreneurial venture? If you already have experience in the industry, were raised in the environment, or have a degree in hospitality, jumping in with both feet could be your next step. Take a self-inventory, considering these three questions to decide if becoming an entrepreneur is fitting for you:

    How much time can you dedicate to your career? Becoming a business owner is time-consuming, with some experts suggesting a schedule including 13-hour days and working through weekends not unusual.

    How big will your venture be? Weigh whether you will be satisfied with a small, local venture or if you want to enjoy national or international outreach.

    What sort of investment are you considering? Finances for small businesses can be complicated and significant, and unless you have substantial savings in place you will most likely need to borrow funds.

    Relationships and Reputations

    No section of the hospitality industry can survive without a solid customer base. With that in mind, providing outstanding customer service and remaining in touch are keys to your success in whatever direction you go. Most industry experts assert that the primary secret to excellent customer service is to empower those who are on your frontline so they can properly satisfy clientele. Ensure those employees are people-oriented and understand how to sincerely satiate customers, even when a complaint arises. If you are that frontline person, your skills should include listening to your customers, staying positive, and solving problems creatively.

    Interview questions and answers

    Complaints vs. Accolades

    When you serve someone in the hospitality industry, bear in mind they generally come to you with an expectation and are looking forward to you meeting it. As a result, they will either feel good about the experience, or they will feel you fell short. Some statistics indicate those who are dissatisfied are more inclined to talk about your business than those who are happy. With that in mind, it’s vital to remain informed of the chatter about your business. Seek methods for effective reputation management, ensuring your customers are responded to in a manner that provides a personal touch. There are a number of tools available, so weigh your options and decide what method will be efficient in your circumstances.

    The hospitality industry offers many opportunities and rewarding experiences. Do some self-introspection and consider your best fit. With hard work, success can be yours.

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    All Introverts! Check Out These 14 Best Jobs!

    Check Out These 14 Best Jobs for Introverts

    Introverts usually lose their energy in the presence of other people and gain energy when they are alone but they are full of qualities.

    They are self-sufficient, experts, creative, good listeners etc. Most traditional jobs make introverts stressed frustrated and exhausted but the truth is there are very few jobs that are suitable for introverts.

    Graphic Designer

    Graphic designing is really a good career path for introverts that are highly creative. Of course, this job career path requires dealing with clients to deliver what kind of design they are looking for but the main work of designing itself is done independently.

    Social Media Manager

    Introverts prefer to work solo but most of them are not anti-social. In fact, they prefer working online jobs that often involve online conversations with online customers. Small, medium and large businesses pay heavy amounts for this job.

    Lab Technician

    Working in a lab as a technician can be a better option for introverts and it allows you to help diagnose patients without actually having to interact with them.

       

    Long Haul Truck Driver

    For introverts, truck driving could be a dream job because it requires driving for long period without having people around.

    Accountant

    Being an accountant, most of your day on work will be spent dealing with numbers rather with people. This is why a job as an accountant can be one of the best and high salaried jobs for introverts who are great in maths and calculations.

    Research Analyst

    A research analyst job can be an excellent job for introverts. It does not require any kind of dealing with people. You just have to research about the assigned topic and write about it.

    FreeLancer

    Freelancing is an excellent job for introverts if they have good skills in programming, designing or researching. It is not one of the highly paid jobs but it can be a good option for introverts at the starting level.

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    Data Entry Work

    I know this work sounds gross but this work can be done from home without having any kind of interaction with people. You can do the entry of medical data or any customer data and get a good amount for this.

    Chef

    A job as a chef is one of the best and interesting jobs for introverts who are good in cooking and baking. You don’t have to deal with people but you spend most of your time on the food, not the people who eat it.

    Traffic Controller

    The job of a traffic controller can be a suitable job for an introvert. As an air traffic controller, you don’t need to talk anybody except pilots and when you do this it only includes structured and limited communication.

    IT Professionals

    As an IT professional, most of your dealings are with data. Being an introvert this job is very satisfying for you.

    Translator

    If you’re smooth in any second language, you can work as a translator. The job requires converting documents that are written from one language to another language.

    Electrician

    As an electrician, you’ll spend your days fitting, maintaining and fixing electrical systems in offices, homes or other buildings. Once the work is discussed with the client, then your job becomes independent.

    Designers

    The past few decades have witnessed major changes in fashion day by day. Dress designing is also very good work for introverts who love designing and has a creative mind and it can be very good in making money just by selling your designed dress.

    Artists

    Most of the artists are very quiet and would love to spend hours in the studio than with a bunch of people. If you are quiet and creative, a career in fine art may be perfect for you.

    Author Bio

    Kate cross is a professional in content marketing. She has graduated with bachelor’s in Business Administration and currently working as a Marketing Manager for an Essay Writing organization. You can contact her on Facebook, Twitter, and Google Plus.