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CNBC
a day ago
- General
- CNBC
Stop saying ‘hope you're well' in emails—to get attention and gain influence, do this instead
You're about to send an email. Maybe it's to a client, a hiring manager, or a colleague you haven't spoken to in a while. Reflexively, you start typing, 'Hope you're well.' While you may genuinely mean it, it doesn't give the recipient a reason to keep reading — and in some cases, it might even prompt them to skip your message entirely. As a keynote speaker, LinkedIn Learning instructor, and bestselling author of 'Unforgettable Presence,' I help professionals improve how they communicate in high-stakes moments. If your opener doesn't stand out, the rest of your message might never get read. Your opening isn't filler, it's the first impression, so you should give it as much thought as the rest of your email. The problem isn't that this phrase is rude — it's just forgettable. 'Hope you're well' has become the email equivalent of boring, autopilot small talk. It's so common that most people are probably skimming over that line. In some cases, it can even feel impersonal or lazy, especially if you're emailing someone you haven't spoken to in a while. In addition to "hope you're well," you should also avoid: A strong opener feels human, specific, and intentional. Because whether you're following up, making an introduction, or kicking off a project, how you start will influence what comes next. Here are a few simple but powerful ways to move beyond 'hope you're well' and craft a message that actually gets attention and builds relationships: If you've connected before — even briefly — use that. Reminding someone where you left off gives your message instant context. Try this: When you can prime people to think positively using positive words and phrases, it's a win-win for everyone. This kind of opener is especially effective when you want to feel warm and action-oriented. Try this: You don't have to ignore the fact that you're reaching out during a busy stretch or after some time has passed. But skip the default pleasantries and be more intentional. Try this: This works especially well in networking or outreach emails. Try this:
Forbes
11-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
3 Overlooked LinkedIn Features That Boost Visibility By Up To 246%
Utilize every relevant tool on your LinkedIn profile so you can increase visibility and grow your ... More business and career If you've been on LinkedIn for the past year or more, and have no clients, partnerships, or job opportunities to show for it, you're likely under-utilizing this platform. LinkedIn is not your everyday social media. And it's a whole lot more than a job board or learning platform (even though LinkedIn Jobs and LinkedIn Learning are great features too). LinkedIn is perhaps the number one asset you should have in your toolkit as a professional, not just when you're representing your employer in a role like sales or business development, but beyond this, for growing your career and the breadth of opportunities you have access to. Where many people go wrong is that they create a profile, and then forget all about it until it's time to look for a job and put their green banner up. They'll probably check in every now and then when their name is shouted out by their boss or when the company celebrates them every six months, but beyond that, there's no presence, authority, visibility, or credibility developed. So when it's time to set yourself up and promote your services as a freelance professional, or look for your next job opportunity, you're stuck and have to start from scratch because you failed to build your visibility consistently beforehand. To help you establish visibility and thought leadership (both of which help you stand out from your competitors as a professional) there are three LinkedIn features you need to be familiar with, which many people unfortunately under-utilize: LinkedIn Carousels is a feature that allows you to showcase your expertise beyond posts in a deep, meaningful, and practical way. It allows you to explore a topic further and be very hands-on with your audience. You can literally upload a PDF that you've created, such as a list of tools and resources, prompts, helpful tips, step-by-step guide, etc. It will then convert into a carousel that people can scroll through. This boosts your value in the eyes of your audience, especially when you're answering a problem that they have directly, and it positions you as a thought leader. You can take inspiration for how to design and format your LinkedIn Carousels by browsing through and studying your favourite creators on LinkedIn, especially those who already work within your industry or field. And you don't need to worry about being a designer because you can literally create carousel templates from Canva's vast library of templates, and tweak according to your style, industry, and brand. Quick tip: if including multiple pages, try to make it one small idea per page so that it's easily digestible and it entices people to click reading for more. LinkedIn Carousels have been proven to boost engagement by as much as 246%, according to a Buffer experiment, so this will help you bring more eyeballs to your profile. This is another underrated gem. When you create a LinkedIn profile, you need to view it as your portfolio, or better yet, your storefront. That doesn't mean everything should scream 'buy now.' But what it does mean is that it should look enticing enough for people to want to consider checking out what exactly you do even further. LinkedIn has a section called 'featured' that sits nicely towards the middle of your profile as visitors scroll down. Use this space to showcase items like: This section is valuable real estate, so handpick three to five items to display here as proof of expertise and credibility, and choose wisely. Another gem which is not directly on your profile, but is connected with it, is LinkedIn's SSI score (this means Social Selling Index). To find out yours, simply copy and paste this URL into your browser: Ensure you're logged into your LinkedIn profile on the same browser first. When you view the SSI page, it should look something like this: This data is invaluable, because it reveals the health of your LinkedIn's profile and presence. The higher your score, the better, as it indicates that you're more visible, have a higher likelihood of building strong client and partnership relationships (even as a job-seeker), and have a strong personal brand. You'll also notice a section which shows that you're in the top X percent of your network (you fill in the X). Look at the four metrics and see where most improvement is needed, and aim to be in the top 10%. Using all these tools help to gradually establish you as an industry thought leader. The "featured" section of your profile is valuable real estate, so use it wisely Ready to transform your LinkedIn profile? Which feature will you begin with today?
Time of India
06-06-2025
- Time of India
Gap year after college? Here are 8 things you can actually do with it
You've crossed the finish line—college is done, your degree's in hand, and now everyone expects you to sprint into a full-time job or sign up for a postgraduate program. But what if your instincts are telling you to pause, breathe, and figure things out first? Taking a gap year after college doesn't mean falling behind—it can mean moving forward with more clarity and confidence. In a world that's changing faster than ever, a well-spent gap year isn't a detour—it's an accelerator. It gives you space to learn new skills, travel smartly, experiment with passion projects, and even question the path you thought you wanted. If you're feeling unsure about what's next—or just craving time to explore without the pressure of formal commitments—here are 8 purposeful, growth-oriented things you can actually do during a gap year that will enrich your personal and professional life. Intern across industries to explore career paths Not sure if you're meant for finance, media, policy, or entrepreneurship? A gap year gives you the freedom to intern in different sectors without the pressure of locking into one. Try a corporate internship for structure, a startup stint for creativity, or even a social impact fellowship to understand how you feel about meaningful work. Many startups and NGOs happily welcome fresh grads looking to explore and contribute—plus, you'll build a killer portfolio along the way. Work, save, and travel smart Taking a year to work part-time or freelance while traveling isn't just about ticking off destinations. It's about learning how to manage money, adapt to new cultures, and develop independence. Think teaching English abroad, working in hostels, or doing remote freelance gigs as you backpack across countries. This kind of experience not only builds soft skills but gives you stories that make your resume—and you—stand out. Pursue passion projects you never had time for Maybe you've always wanted to write a book, launch a podcast, build an app, or start a blog. Your gap year is the perfect time to turn that 'someday' project into a tangible achievement. Passion projects show initiative, creativity, and follow-through—qualities that recruiters and grad schools deeply respect. And who knows? That side project might even become your full-time gig. Get certified in skills that employers are looking for Gap years can be great for upskilling. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer certifications in areas like digital marketing, financial modeling, coding, UI/UX design, and data analysis. These are in-demand skills across industries, and earning certifications during your break can give you a serious edge over peers who only have a degree. Volunteer for a cause Volunteering during your gap year isn't just about giving back—it's about growing personally and professionally. Whether you work with children, environmental NGOs, or rural education initiatives, this kind of work teaches empathy, leadership, and communication. Plus, you'll get exposure to real-world problems that can't be understood in a classroom. Some programs even offer stipends, travel support, or accommodation—so don't rule it out for financial reasons. Work on your mental and physical wellbeing College can be draining—mentally, emotionally, and physically. A gap year can give you the breathing space to reset. Join a meditation or yoga retreat, adopt a healthier lifestyle, or take therapy seriously if you've been postponing it. Remember, no career goal is worth sacrificing your well-being. Use the time to become your most balanced self before you hit the gas pedal again. Start a small business or side hustle Always had a business idea but never enough time? This is it. Whether it's launching a digital service, selling handmade products online, or building a tutoring brand—your gap year is your low-risk zone to experiment. Even if the business doesn't go big, what you'll learn in terms of marketing, budgeting, and customer service will be invaluable. Entrepreneurship—even on a micro-scale—can teach you more than most business courses. Prepare for competitive exams or higher education abroad Gap years are commonly used to prepare for entrance exams like CAT, GRE, GMAT, UPSC, or IELTS. If you have a bigger academic goal in mind, this is the time to study deeply, build your profile, and apply with intention rather than rush into a course or job just because 'it's what everyone does.' Taking a gap year isn't about taking a break from life—it's about stepping into life with more clarity, courage, and purpose. Whether you use it to travel, learn, work, heal, or hustle, what matters is that it reflects you —your goals, your pace, your direction. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Forbes
03-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
How To Future-Proof Your Career At Age 45 And Stay Competitive
Mid-career professionals are embracing upskilling and digital tools to stay relevant in today's ... More digital workforce. Your forties arrive faster than expected. One moment, you're the rising voice in the room; the next, you're planning for retirement while navigating a workplace that increasingly amplifies the perspectives of recent graduates. If you're 45 and questioning how to keep up in a job market that seems to shift by the minute, you're not the only one. What worked in your 30s may now feel outdated. On the positive side, your career isn't winding down; it's evolving. The employment rate for the 45-54 age group is consistently high, reflecting a large and stable segment of the workforce, according to Statista. However, unemployed individuals 45 and older face ageism. You must be intentional about staying visible and maintaining their value. Staying relevant requires an ongoing strategy that evolves with your industry, not against it. By age 45, many professionals face growing pressure to adapt to digital transformation and generational shifts in the workplace. According to the Harvard Business Review, age-diverse teams lead to stronger innovation and performance. But experience alone won't keep you competitive. Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning and edX offer short, accessible certifications specifically designed for mid-career professionals. A career pivot doesn't require starting from scratch; it requires a strategic rebrand. Update your LinkedIn profile with a clear headline that aligns with your future goals, not just past roles. Share posts or insights that position you as a thought leader. Use AI tools like Resume Worded or Teal HQ to audit your LinkedIn for keyword strength and tone. Staying competitive at 45 means combining experience with adaptability, balancing what you've ... More mastered with a willingness to grow. Instead of just aiming higher on the corporate ladder, seek roles that flex your expertise while helping you grow. These include: If you've considered launching a business, your mid-40s are the best time to do it. MIT Sloan found that entrepreneurs aged 40-60 statistically build more sustainable companies than younger founders. Offer mentorship while remaining open to new approaches. Reverse mentoring is a powerful way to stay agile and informed across generations. Future-proofing your career is a continuous process. The mindset shift involves replacing 'I've done this before' with 'What can I learn next?' Chasing every trend is exhausting; you'll burn yourself out. Staying aligned with what the future of work in your sector demands focus. Stay adaptable, not anchored. The job market may be changing, but your ability to adapt gives you a distinct edge. Make your move before it passes you by; step into it with intention. The professionals who thrive at 45 and beyond are boldly building what's next.
Time of India
03-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
6 productive things students can do over school break
School breaks are often seen as a time to unwind—and rightly so. After weeks or months of assignments, exams, and long nights, taking a breather is essential. But in between the Netflix binges and late mornings, breaks also offer a rare chance to get ahead without the usual pressures of school life. Being productive doesn't mean filling every minute with work. Instead, it's about using part of your free time to invest in yourself—your goals, your future, or even your peace of mind. Here are six things you can do over break that balance rest with meaningful growth. Update your resume or portfolio Whether you're preparing your college applications or planning for internships after school ends, your resume is often the first impression you make. A school break is the perfect time to refresh it. Add any new experience you've gained, such as campus projects, volunteer work, or academic achievements. If you're in a creative or tech field, consider updating your portfolio as well—organise your best work, clean up your layout, and make it presentable for future opportunities. Even if you're not actively applying yet, having an updated resume on hand saves time and reduces stress when deadlines come around. Learn a new skill Short online courses are ideal during breaks. They're often self-paced, and you can dip in and out as your schedule allows. Whether it's learning Excel, coding, public speaking, graphic design, or even budgeting—small skills can compound over time. Platforms like Coursera, Skillshare, LinkedIn Learning, and even YouTube offer free or affordable options. Choose something that genuinely interests you or aligns with your long-term goals. Bonus: You can add these completed courses to your LinkedIn profile or resume. Shadow a professional or volunteer locally Breaks are a great time to test-drive career interests. Shadowing a professional in a field you're curious about can offer clarity you won't get from textbooks or career websites. Even a day or two can give you insight into whether a path is right for you. If shadowing isn't possible, volunteering is another valuable way to gain experience and give back. Many nonprofits and community groups welcome extra help during school holidays, and volunteering can also expand your network and build soft skills like teamwork and communication. Declutter and organise your digital life It's not glamorous, but organising your digital space can save you serious time later. Use your break to clean up your desktop, sort files into folders, delete unused apps, and back up important documents. Go through your inbox and unsubscribe from newsletters you never read. Organise your notes from last semester so they're easy to access for future reference or finals. You'll start the next term with a clearer mind and a more efficient setup. Read something out of academic syllabus Academic reading is often fast and functional—just enough to prep for an exam or finish a paper. During your break, try reading something for yourself. It doesn't have to be a classic or a self-help bestseller (unless that's your thing). Fiction, memoir, essays, long-form journalism—anything that expands your worldview or simply offers a good story can be mentally refreshing. Reading outside of assignments improves critical thinking and writing skills almost by accident. Plus, it's one of the few productive things that also feels like a true break. Reflect and plan for the next term School breaks are the ideal time to check in with yourself. What worked well last semester? What didn't? Are your current habits helping or holding you back? Take some time to journal or think through your academic and personal goals. If you're feeling ambitious, you can map out major deadlines for the next term, organise your calendar, or set a few small goals—like joining a campus club, applying for scholarships, or taking more regular study breaks. Even a loose plan can help you feel more in control when classes resume. Productivity doesn't have to mean hustle. Using your break to grow in small, intentional ways can make a big difference—without ruining the restful spirit of vacation. With a little planning, you can return to school refreshed and more prepared than ever. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
