It’s time on, not time off …

Over the next few weeks, hiring managers and employers will get significantly less e-mails and phone calls from job seekers. This is because many have decided to wait until the new year. This is your chance to capitalize on the relaxation of others.  Though hiring may be slower during the weeks surrounding Christmas and New Year’s Day, it doesn’t mean that the process for reviewing and considering candidates has stopped. There are many positions waiting to be filled by the right candidate. That candidate could be you! Spend some time over the next few weeks refreshing your resume and getting it in the inbox of key stakeholders. Even if they’ve taken some time off for the holidays, they’ll recognize your persistence despite the lackadaisical approach of others.

‘Tis the season … to network

The festive nature of the holidays means that there will be many celebrations, holiday parties, lunches and dinners with colleagues, friends and co-workers. The relaxed atmosphere of holiday functions can be the perfect time to discuss career goals, network with potential employers, and connect with other professionals. If you aren’t working or a looking for a career change, consider tagging along with a friend or family member to one of their employer’s holiday functions. This is a great way to meet new people who are doing just the kind of work that you might want to do. Also look into attending the holiday parties of professional organizations like your local Black MBA chapter or NSBE (National Society of Black Engineers) chapter. Striking casual conversation at one of these events could prove to be a power move for your career.  Note: Be sure to keep your consumption of holiday spirits to a minimum and maintain your professionalism at all times.

New year, new approach …

Take the time over the next few weeks to evaluate your career strategy and progress over the last year. Conduct your own self-assessment by listing what has worked and what hasn’t worked as it relates to reaching your career goals. Then decide what you’re going to do differently or the same in the New Year. Ditch the things that haven’t worked and try something new. If you’ve received very few responses using your current resume, consider having it professionally tailored in the New Year. If you feel like you bombed your last few interviews, practice your interviewing techniques with a qualified career coach.  If your network hasn’t expanded much, commit yourself to broadening your rolodex and strengthening new relationships with like-minded professionals. Don’t enter 2012 using the same methods of reaching your career goals that you did in 2011. A fresh, new approach could be just what your career needs.

Aisha Taylor (@realTAYLORmade) is co-owner and chief consultant at TAYLORmade Professional Career Consulting, a Web-based, full-service career consulting company committed to “equipping, preparing, and empowering today’s professional” globally. Check out her weekly insights on job-seeking and interviewing success every Friday on BlackEnterprise.com.

(Image: Thinkstock)

As much as you would like to believe it, no, you didn’t just win a brand new Mercedes Benz or $1 million just in time for the holidays.

That telephone call you may have received about your exciting “win” in a sweepstakes or lottery is just a scam, according to the Better Business Bureau, which is warning people to be on the lookout for such fraud.

Ironically, the scam artists perpetrating this current con are actually claiming to be from the BBB and they’re pointing people to a look-alike BBB website under the official sounding name: www.better-businessbureau.org. But this site contains misinformation and fraudulent claims.

The real BBB website, which is the only legitimate one you should use, is http://www.bbb.org/.

This con serves as a reminder that financial predators typically prey upon people’s innocence, their need or their greed. So don’t give con men the opportunity to take advantage of you.

Of course, with the holidays right around the corner, it sounds so very appealing to think that you may have won some fabulous, expensive prize or that you may have hit the financial jackpot.

But don’t be fooled. These bogus promises of winnings – which have targeted consumers nationwide and especially in Virginia and Michigan – are no more real than Santa Claus’s elves.

In reality, the calls appear to be coming from the 876 area code out of Jamaica.

That’s why BBB officials remind consumers that, for starters, the BBB does not conduct sweepstakes. So no one from the BBB would ever call you saying that he/she is an “agent” authorized to grant you a prize.

Additionally, the BBB urges people not to fall into the trap of turning over personal or financial information over the telephone to a stranger. That’s just setting yourself up for identity theft and financial fraud.

Instead, if you get a bogus sweepstakes call that is allegedly from the BBB, you should record the number and the conversation, then contact the BBB’s Scam Portal.

In the meantime, follow these other tips from the BBB to avoid becoming the victim of a financial scam:

• Don’t ever give out your credit card number, social security number, or personal data to someone you don’t know
• Don’t ever pay any money upfront in order to collect supposed winnings. Legitimate sweepstakes don’t charge you “shipping and handling” or “taxes” on your win upfront.
• Don’t ever wire money to strangers. If you lose your money, it’s gone forever and chances are you won’t be able to track down the recipient.

As I’ve said before, it’s a shame that scammers never take a break: not even for the holidays. On the contrary, during this time of year the financial hucksters and con artists seem determined to come out in full force to part people from their hard-earned dollars.

But it’s up to you to turn the tables on these economic predators, and make sure you use sound financial practices—and some good old -ashioned common sense—to avoid becoming a victim of someone who intends to do you financial and personal harm.

“Ask The Money Coach” is a syndicated column written by personal finance expert Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, co-founder of the free financial advice blog, AskTheMoneyCoach.com. Follow Lynnette on Twitter at @themoneycoach.

Red & White Enhancers
Only a true wine enthusiast can appreciate the benefit of Vinturi (www.vinturi.com) wine aerators, but even aspirants will notice the difference. Created for both red and white varietals, these accessories instantly allow wine to breathe, which provides a better bouquet, richer flavor, and smoother finish—reducing or in some cases eliminating any bitter taste for just $39.95.

Politically Correct
Christopher Augmon’s luxurious travel and spa bags are a celebration of the political process. His Presidential Mate line—in Republican red and Democrat blue—offers sturdy leather bags that are also moisture-resistant. A smart look for $850. To order, visit www.augmon.com.

A Smooth Set
In a range of tastes for a Scotch whiskey palate, Dewar’s Discovery Gift Set includes 200 ml bottles of Dewar’s Signature, Dewar’s 12, and the award-winning Dewar’s 18, just released in the U.S. This limited edition case comes in special leather packaging and retails for $100.

A Stylish Sip
Toasting to the economic recovery can be a fashionable gesture with the Veuve Clicquot Ice Jacket II (www.veuve-clicquot.com). Present a gift of fine champagne cloaked in a textured honeycomb jacket accented with a brown leather strap and leather-framed label, which offers a gift card for a special message. Ring in the New Year with it for $50.

The House Special
From a cognac house that dates back to 1775, Hennessy Paradis (www.hennessy.com) was created in 1979 and has become an impeccable blend of more than 100 aged eaux-de-vie, or clear, unsweetened fruit brandies, for true connoisseurs. Its smooth, rich, spiced flavor is unparalleled. A holiday special for $670.

Culture Statements
Born in Ethiopia, raised in Sweden, and now living in New York City, chef Marcus Samuelsson has an acute appreciation for how world cultures have influenced the American palate. In New American Table (Wiley; $40), he uses vivid cuisine and travel photographs to take readers on a sumptuous journey way beyond hot dogs and apple pie.

True Classics
For those who have a refined appreciation for music, the fourth series of the Jazz Icons (www.jazzicons.com) DVD box set features classical performances filmed between 1962 and 1970 by jazz legends that include Coleman Hawkins, Jimmy Smith, Woody Herman, Art Farmer, Erroll Garner, Anita O’Day, and Art Blakey. Some footage has never been seen before — until now, for $119.99.

The House Special
From a cognac house that dates back to 1775, Hennessy Paradis (www.hennessy.com) was created in 1979 and has become an impeccable blend of more than 100 aged eaux-de-vie, or clear, unsweetened fruit brandies, for true connoisseurs. Its smooth, rich, spiced flavor is unparalleled. A holiday special for $670.

Aesthetics and Art
After 10 years of research, author and photographer Deborah Willis presents a well-rounded compilation and probing perspective of how black people have defined beauty over the last 200 years. Posing Beauty: African American Images from the 1890s to the Present (W.W. Norton; $49.95) offers research and photographs featuring celebrities, sexuality, fashion, and celebrations.

Chic Storage
The stylish new version of the Iomega eGo Portable Hard Drive (www.iomega.com) comes in four vibrant colors. A handy device, it’s also damage-resistant, providing up to 500GB capacity and a suite of backup and antivirus protection solutions. It’s an easy stocking stuffer starting at $84.99.

Drive Time
For those who love precision and performance, Breitling’s Bentley 6.75 chronograph (www.breitlingforbentley.com) embodies the craftsmanship of the engine it is named after. The self-winding timepiece with an especially easy-to-read calendar comes in steel, yellow gold, or limited-edition rose gold.

This article originally appeared in the December 2009 issue of Black Enterprise magazine.

But that doesn’t mean its okay to forego showing your gratitude. “This is not the time to give in abundance, but it is time to give in appreciation,” says Angelo Ellerbee, celebrity etiquette coach and CEO of public relations firm Double Xxposure.

So, as you prepare your tipping and gift list, be of good cheer. Lizzie Post, author, lifestyle guru and great, great granddaughter to etiquette expert Emily Post says you should definitely tip service workers, but you do not have to tip or give a gift to professionals such as your doctor, dentist, or therapist. Hairstylists and professional trainers are an exception to that rule. You should tip them the cost of one visit or an equally valuable gift.

Post recommends that you not give your boss a gift. “There is a chance for it to look like you are trying to buy favoritism,” she says. But a group gift, from the department or team is OK.

However, if you have $5 or less to give, opt instead to give an equally valuable gift. Although every little bit counts, some professionals might be offended to receive such a small tip. Plus, a thoughtful gift could be received as more heartfelt.

If money for a gift is simply not available at all, Post and Ellerbee, agree there are other ways to show your appreciation:

Get creative in gift giving. Use your talent and time to make service providers something special from the heart.

Communicate your gratitude. Make sure you tell the worker verbally or in written communication how much you appreciate their services.

Holiday Tipping Recommendations from The Emily Post Institute:

Regular babysitter

– One evening’s pay and a small gift from your children.

Home health employees/ Private nurse

– Check with agency first about gifts or tipping policies. If there is a “no gifts/tipping policy,” consider a donation to the agency. Otherwise, give them a thoughtful gift from you.

Housekeeper/Cleaner

– Up to the amount of one week’s pay and/or a small gift.

Barber/Beauty salon staff

– Cost of one haircut or salon visit or a gift. Give individual cards or small gifts to each staff member who works with you.

Personal trainer

– Up to the cost of one session or a gift.

Newspaper delivery person

– $10-$30 or a small gift

Apartment doorman/superintendent

– $15 or more, each for multiple doormen, or a gift.

Gardner

$20-$50 each or a gift

Teachers

– A small gift (not cash) or note from you as well as a small gift from your child.

Mail carriers

– United States Postal Service workers may not accept cash gifts, checks, gift cards, or any other form of currency. Give them small gifts that have little intrinsic value (travel mugs, hand warmers, etc.) that are worth no more than $20 in value.

RESOURCES

Emily Post Institute’s full tipping recommendations

Average tips given during the 2008 Holiday

The New Basic Black: Home Training for Modern Times — Revised Edition

How to Be: A Guide to Contemporary Living for African Americans

BlackEnterprise.com On Etiquette

Style expert Fonzworth Bentley says office party fashion can be festive, yet work-appropriate. (Photo by Lonnie C. Major)

It’s that time of year again, where people get into the spirit of the holidays. As the shopping peaks, the lights are draped, and the travel plans are finalized, most offices are gearing up for the festivities with the traditional holiday party.

The office celebration offers an opportunity to unwind from a year of challenges, to fellowship with those who have worked to address those challenges, and to have a cocktail or two to toast to a prosperous new year.

But you don’t want to be that coworker who is the center of next year’s stories of faux pas — the one who got too drunk and insulted the boss’ wife or who got caught talking with one too many meatballs in their mouth.

BlackEnterprise.com talked with Fonzworth Bentley, style expert, former P. Diddy assistant, and author of Advance Your Swagger: How to Use Manners, Confidence, and Style to Get Ahead (Random House; $24.95), on how to avoid making this year’s celebration one you’d rather forget.

Holiday Party Do’s

DO be sure you’re dressed appropriately. “This is an opportunity to wear something that is festive and fun,” Bentley says. “[Your coworkers] can really get an idea of your personality.”

For both men and women, he recommends the classic business staple — a tailored jacket — which can be dressed up or down. “A velvet blazer is always cool, or a nice red stewart plaid,” he says.

Ladies should shy away from blouses that are too low-cut or revealing and skirts and dresses that are too short. Strike a balance between what you’d wear to work and what you’d wear to an after-hour party.

For the fellas, Bentley says wear something memorable, but “you don’t want to [look like] an all out clown.”

DO come prepared to engage in great conversation. “Make sure you are on point with your reading and your current events,” Bentley says, adding that knowing the latest about news and notable subjects can make for a great conversation ice breaker.

Holiday Party Don’ts

DON’T go overboard with alcohol consumption. “This is not the forum for that because it will come back to bite you,” Bentley says. You don’t want to embarrass yourself or others because you’ve had one too many sips of that special eggnog. “The best thing to do is keep it light,” Bentley advises.

DON’T take more than two of anything at the buffet table at a time. Walking around with a plate piled full of food “is just not a good look,” Bentley says. “If you have to go back [to the buffet table], then go back.” He also cautions revelers to stay “focused on your napkin game,” to avoid the embarrassment of talking with food on your face or mouth.

DON’T bombard your boss or supervisor with forced conversation or pitches. In approaching your boss, Bentley says, timing is key. “If you see a line of coworkers waiting their turn to talk with the boss, hold back,” he says.

Bentley’s biggest rule of thumb for holiday parties: “Avoid embarrassment at all costs,” he says. “Don’t get yourself in an embarrassing situation, period.”

Red & White Enhancers

Only a true wine enthusiast can appreciate the benefit of Vinturi (www.vinturi.com) wine aerators, but even aspirants will notice the difference. Created for both red and white varietals, these accessories instantly allow wine to breathe, which provides a better bouquet, richer flavor, and smoother finish—reducing or in some cases eliminating any bitter taste for just $39.95.

Politically Correct
Christopher Augmon’s luxurious travel and spa bags are a celebration of the political process. His Presidential Mate line—in Republican red and Democrat blue—offers sturdy leather bags that are also moisture-resistant. A smart look for $850. To order, visit www.augmon.com.

A Smooth Set
In a range of tastes for a Scotch whiskey palate, Dewar’s Discovery Gift Set includes 200 ml bottles of Dewar’s Signature, Dewar’s 12, and the award-winning Dewar’s 18, just released in the U.S. This limited edition case comes in special leather packaging and retails for $100.

A Stylish Sip
Toasting to the economic recovery can be a fashionable gesture with the Veuve Clicquot Ice Jacket II (www.veuve-clicquot.com). Present a gift of fine champagne cloaked in a textured honeycomb jacket accented with a brown leather strap and leather-framed label, which offers a gift card for a special message. Ring in the New Year with it for $50.

The House Special
From a cognac house that dates back to 1775, Hennessy Paradis (www.hennessy.com) was created in 1979 and has become an impeccable blend of more than 100 aged eaux-de-vie, or clear, unsweetened fruit brandies, for true connoisseurs. Its smooth, rich, spiced flavor is unparalleled. A holiday special for $670.

Culture Statements
Born in Ethiopia, raised in Sweden, and now living in New York City, chef Marcus Samuelsson has an acute appreciation for how world cultures have influenced the American palate. In New American Table (Wiley; $40), he uses vivid cuisine and travel photographs to take readers on a sumptuous journey way beyond hot dogs and apple pie.

True Classics
For those who have a refined appreciation for music, the fourth series of the Jazz Icons (www.jazzicons.com) DVD box set features classical performances filmed between 1962 and 1970 by jazz legends that include Coleman Hawkins, Jimmy Smith, Woody Herman, Art Farmer, Erroll Garner, Anita O’Day, and Art Blakey. Some footage has never been seen before — until now, for $119.99.

The House Special
From a cognac house that dates back to 1775, Hennessy Paradis (www.hennessy.com) was created in 1979 and has become an impeccable blend of more than 100 aged eaux-de-vie, or clear, unsweetened fruit brandies, for true connoisseurs. Its smooth, rich, spiced flavor is unparalleled. A holiday special for $670.

Aesthetics and Art
After 10 years of research, author and photographer Deborah Willis presents a well-rounded compilation and probing perspective of how black people have defined beauty over the last 200 years. Posing Beauty: African American Images from the 1890s to the Present (W.W. Norton; $49.95) offers research and photographs featuring celebrities, sexuality, fashion, and celebrations.

Chic Storage
The stylish new version of the Iomega eGo Portable Hard Drive (www.iomega.com) comes in four vibrant colors. A handy device, it’s also damage-resistant, providing up to 500GB capacity and a suite of backup and antivirus protection solutions. It’s an easy stocking stuffer starting at $84.99.

Drive Time
For those who love precision and performance, Breitling’s Bentley 6.75 chronograph (www.breitlingforbentley.com) embodies the craftsmanship of the engine it is named after. The self-winding timepiece with an especially easy-to-read calendar comes in steel, yellow gold, or limited-edition rose gold.

This article originally appeared in the December 2009 issue of Black Enterprise magazine.

It’s that time of the year again: The annual holiday office party. Instead of dreading spending more time with your boss and co-workers, use the opportunity to have some fun and advance your career. Office parties can be prime networking opportunities and a chance for you to stand out from the crowd with perfect party etiquette.

Passing up the invite could hurt your reputation, so if you decide to attend, there are a few basic rules to follow, says Ruben Britt, Jr., assistant director of  the Career and Academic Planning Center at Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey.

“Arrive on time. it’s easier to network in a smaller crowd,” he says. When you get there, scope the room and find key people in the company to chat with, he adds. “Before the party, research that person’s role within the organization. Let them know about your position and certain aspects about your job that you enjoy. Be prepared to answer questions.”

Nervous about approaching people you don’t know? “Align yourself with someone who knows that person or the movers and shakers, and have them introduce you to them,” says Britt.

If you meet guests from outside the company, always exchange business cards. Still, says Britt, you don’t only have to talk shop. Keep the conversations positive and upbeat. Avoid controversial subjects (such as office gossip, religion, politics, etc.) and off-color jokes, but show an interest in others and their opinions. “You want to enjoy yourself and the company of others,” he says.

During the evening, try to keep one hand free during the night so that you can offer handshakes to people as they come by. And it’s a good idea to keep your drink in your left hand; your hand won’t be cold and/or wet when you do shake hands.

Remember the party is still a business function, so dress and act accordingly. Nightclub attire is a no-no. “Perception is everything and you don’t want to wear anything that is too short, tight or revealing,” says Britt.

When it comes to food and drink, moderation is best.  Flirting with the fellow guests and inappropriate behavior could be a career ender.

But if you do embarrass yourself, all is not lost, says Britt. “Make it the first order of business to apologize to the appropriate person(s). Hopefully your co-workers will understand the situation and have a good laugh about it further down the road.”

At the end of the gathering, make sure to thank the host or person who organized the function. You can also send a thank-you note to top management for hosting the party.

After the party, follow up with anyone you networked with during the event. “Wait until after the New Year to write a note or email suggesting a meeting,” Britt advises. “Make sure that you remind the person how much you enjoyed their conversation at the office party and that you’d like to discuss a particular idea in greater detail. Use what you learned at the party to create a connection.”