Conscious Strategies LLC

Category: conscious strategies

  • How to Spot a Recruiter Scam

    Has a “recruiter scammed you”? The first time it happened to me, it took me a few shakes of the head to realize and spot the recruiter scam in the nick of time.

    Luckily, I wisened up after the first event, and I’m here to share my tips for spotting a recruiter scam before you send your bank information to their nonexistent HR department.

    Now, not all recruiters are robots enlisted to scam you. But in this tight job market, we may unwittingly fall prey to scammers scouting the internet for information they can use against us.

    Six red flags that may indicate a recruiter scam

    #1 The initial exchange comes out of the blue

    Hello, you’ve won the lottery. All you have to do is…Just kidding. Whenever I get an email from a company I can’t remember applying to (and I keep a file to double-check my memory), I think, “Hmm, maybe this is a recruiter scam.”

    Also, the bot will often say “hi, hello, or dear” without using your full name. See how the initial email was so impersonal? The person said “Hi”, not “Hi Rana”.

    #2 And the line about scheduling the interview?

    Even if you can bypass that with curiosity, you could wonder why I must email them back to access the calendar. Hmm. It seems unprofessional. What do you think? I think it is a fishing expedition to see if you reply. And you may, so read on.

    #3 Not super professional on any level

    It IS curious that I have to email them when I can’t even remember who the firm is. Doubt lurks in my mind like a mugger following you to your car. If you’re in doubt, it may mean you have had way more professional teams and HR people reach out to you. You’re comparing those experiences with the current sketchy one, thinking “not very professional, would I enjoy working for that company in the first place?”

    #4 Suspicious format, font, and pre-job briefing

    I’ve been in marketing for over 10 years and have never heard of a pre-job briefing. Interview preparation materials – yes. Also, the font looked different. And why did Lily not have a signature? Even contractors typically take on a domain signature. So many little weird things in a normally civilized email with a consistent font and format.

    #5 Verify before trust

    Assuming you aren’t convinced. Or, you researched the company and await their email team to respond to your inquiry. Because yes, you do have to reach out by phone, over LinkedIn, or through the company’s contact portal to see if this is a legitimate interview offer.

    On the last PDF page of the so-called Job Briefing Guide, there is a big red flag If you run into difficulties setting up Teams. You wouldn’t omit the period and capitalize the “I”. This kind of typo should alert you. Also, HR people send Teams links from verified platforms. You shouldn’t be typing in a person’s name. See #6 for more.

    #6 Over the edge red flag

    Hiring managers would take the domain name of the company they work for. I’d like to point out how this scammer had an Outlook account. And what does that code mean?

    I suspected this was a scam because it is the second of its kind to land in my inbox. I’ve received them by phone, but those are different. This type sends collateral to lure you in and when you’re looking for a job you might be tempted to follow every lead.

    Don’t be weak, the right opportunity will present itself. Follow up, check it out, believe in you. Otherwise, you are part of a growing number of already having a hard time earning a living folks who’ve just given out some very private information. Established companies with legit HR departments send you correspondence through a portal, typically.

    Here’s what AI has to say about recruiter scams:

    Yes, recruiter scams are happening and are on the rise. Scammers increasingly target job seekers online, often impersonating legitimate recruiters or companies to gain personal or financial information. These scams can take various forms, including fake job offers, requests for upfront payments, and phishing attempts. 

  • Defining your personal style: The foundation of your brand image

    Your personal style is a basic building block of your brand image. It reflects your personality, values, and the message you want to convey to your audience. Defining your personal style involves getting to know what makes you feel your most confident and put together. And, deciding how you want to be perceived by others. 

    Is your personal style on social media boosting or busting your brand’s vibe?

    Remember that as a small business owner, you are the face of your brand – whatever that is. You may be a pilates teacher who at 60 is starting to teach. Or, a person who has an idea and wants to bring that to market. The people you want to reach (your audience) sees you and makes a decision if they want to buy, learn, or subscribe. 

    Rana Waxman dressed in a pink blazer and white top sits at her desk accompanied by her cute brown dog.
    Personal style and brand style should convey authenticity and consistency.

    CASE STUDY “A”

    “A” is a personal coach. She frequently posts selfies and is always in different attire. In one photo, A called out a stylist friend thanking them for the Valentino dress she was posing in. It was a lovely dress and A looked uber gorgeous. There are some selfies and photos of A in lovely camisoles and dresses which I feel detract from a professional vibe. Others show her reading, meditating, and smelling flowers. 

    Since A is all over social media, a potential client might assume that A is a wealthy coach with high rates, and plenty of free time. The pretty selfies are more suitable for a private account because coaches aren’t there to sell their beauty. Lastly, talking to A you find she’s very professional, hardworking, experienced, and has affordable rates. 

    Conclusion: It’s possible to enhance your value proposition with personal style and the opposite is also true. [Your value prop is the “why” a customer should believe you, buy your product, or service.] And by the way, you don’t have to follow trends, have a ton of money, be a certain age or body type.

    Check out these examples to see what I mean.

    https://www.instagram.com/sivanskitchen/ (dresses in T shirts, always looks organized and clean to showcase her recipes which makes you want to try them).

    https://www.instagram.com/bakedbymelissa always wears tie dye and says “I love you, bye” – it conveys a down to earth vibe and is relatable.

    Both https://www.instagram.com/nililotan/ (her brand – unapologetically luxurious and exclusive – be like me) and https://www.instagram.com/de_rococo/ (let’s be stylish gals together) do a great job using their platforms to showcase their style-brand.

    5 questions to ask yourself to enhance your brand through style 

    Used wisely, social media can help you build your community and engage with others. It can also be a tool for sales, subscriptions, and better organic website traffic.

    Here are 5 questions to ask yourself to determine if your personal style (visible on social) is enhancing or undermining your brand image.

    1. Calling out someone you admire is great. Does it tie into your brand (services)?
    2. Mentioning brand names is fine. Do you do that consistently and for a specific reason?
    3. Showing your facets can work. Will your audience think you are a show off?
    4. People form opinions by what they see and hear. Are you sending the “right message”.
    5. Yes to dressing for success. But is the dress the message? It could be.

    Bottom line – a strategy helps.

    Simple ways to define your personal style so it aligns with your brand image

    Aliza Licht – On Brand

    “you have to tell your story in the way you want it reported”

    Defining your personal style is an ongoing process. It may evolve over time as you grow and start self-reflecting. Embrace this evolution and use it as an opportunity to refine and elevate your brand image. 

    Do some research. Check out different fashion sources for inspiration. Scan social media, check out magazines and fashion influencers. See what other brand owners in your industry wear. It’s just an idea gathering time. We can always look at what you have and make outfits, or identify capsule wardrobe items that will sustain you for awhile.

    Tip: Take your measurements so you can learn how to dress for your body shape (and buy the right size). Sloppy appearance could convey a sloppy work style and you don’t want that. Goes for any industry from personal trainer to CEO.

    Make time for a closet clean out. Find the items that make you feel confident and creative. Make piles with clothes that bring you down or don’t fit. Notice if there are colors, silhouettes, textures or types of clothes that don’t feel right at this time. For instance, I used to love mauve but when I wear it I think it makes me look tired. 

    Tip: Note any emotions that come up as you do this exercise. These pants make me feel___ or gee, I always fidget with the buttons when I wear that top. Discomfort shows up like a chocolate ice cream stain on white pants (speaking from experience here).

    Think about the message you want to communicate. I am a purpose-driven professional so I often wear clothes by brands that give back. I’ll often buy from smaller companies, led by individuals who value their clients – as I do. While creative, I’m also practical and prefer classics – especially good quality items that are on sale. Many of my friends like quantity but I find quality gives me more satisfaction. 

    Tip: Write down words that describe your personality, values, and brand story. 

    CASE STUDY “B”

    On Instagram, I follow “B”, a female founder who posts dressed in sweatshirts. She’s a mentor and speaker too but doesn’t wear her hoodies to do that. She gives off an approachable, hardworking, vibe. When B posts pictures of her speaking engagements, she’s wearing jeans and a blazer or some type of office casual outfit. She comes across as a busy professional/mom/entrepreneur who gets her look together when it’s necessary and is otherwise dressed like a friend who is as laid back as anyone once work is done. She is very consistent and does a good job at the formula: personal style = brand style. If you posted in sweatshirts, what message would it send?

    Conclusion: It isn’t about following fashion trends, it’s about messaging. Steve https://www.instagram.com/packleaderdogs/ nails it – always in his t-shirt and always talks about dog psychology. You remember him. The only thing I would tell him is – instead of using Instagram as a blog which doesn’t help people find your website and book you – write a blog and share your blog on social media so you get more traction.

    Next steps – authenticity and consistency

    Your personal style is a powerful tool. It’s a reflection of your unique identity and a direct channel to your audience. Let your authentic self shine through!

    Need help unlocking your personal style? I specialize in mindfulness and stress reduction techniques that can guide you towards a genuine expression of yourself. When you dress appropriately and from that authentic self, you can build a consistent brand image – and that builds trust. Stay tuned for more about consistency and thanks for reading. You can also download my free E-book to get started.

    Defining your personal style to elevate your brand image (1)Download

  • How to Become an Organized Person

    Many people I talk to want to become more organized. Yes, staying organized is also a concern, but if you are already orderly, chances are you know how to do that. I’m interested today in how to set yourself up for success. In the process, you may discover that you enjoy your new behaviors and see the fruits of your labor.

    What are the benefits of being organized?

    The benefits of being organized include better work flow and time management. You’ll also become a top-notch problem solver as you uncover habits that don’t work for you. Shedding unproductive ways is like moving to high-speed internet or upgrading your operating system.

    5 benefits of being and staying organized

    To entice you to begin to think like an organized person (you’ve got your sh*t together), I’ve compiled a list. Call it the top 5 benefits of becoming and maintaining an organized lifestyle.
    Getting a medal for helping my sister-in-law get out of boxes after her move

    What is the best way to stay organized?

    The best way to stay organized is to change a few behaviors. You have to create the conditions that move you away from chaos. Once you have a zest for it, you will want to maintain and even improve the way you do things. 
    Here’s an example. A good friend of mine works from home, as I do. She saw a picture of my office and couldn’t believe how tidy my desk was. “I can’t seem to de-clutter” she moaned. “I love papers too much.” My suggestion was that she not try to be a different person. I recommended she keep her enthusiasm for post-its. “Color code them” I said. “Post them on a something like a white board.” Well, this seems to be working for her small space. She chose to put post-its on a board behind her computer desk. It helps her manage her projects. I think if you can see what you have, you will:
    • Buy less
    • Have better access to your things
    • Not waste time looking
    Put alike items together for visual assistance

    How do I become neat and organized?

    The best way to become neat and tidy is to place like items together. Full disclaimer, I color code where possible. This system works well when I am getting dressed in the morning. You don’t have to go full in right away. My husband likes all his t-shirts together followed by hoodies. I prefer to put all my whites together. Are you a category person like him? Or are you a follow the rainbow person like me?

    Preparation is the key to success

    Truth told, my grandma taught me how to become organized. Not by drilling it into me. No. I must have learned by watching her. She too, worked from home. Back when hand-made knitting was in (before machines) she and Zaida had a knitting business. Since we lived with my grandparents, her hands were full (pun intended). I know many working women will relate. But it didn’t stop her from entertaining. Picture holiday meals with every family member, mah-jong games with ‘the girls’ and more. Grandma met the challenges of her life through old-fashioned preparation. I saw her make cookies days in advance of get togethers. Her suitcases were at the door 2 weeks ahead of take-off. The secret to her success with staying organized was to do what she could ahead of time. One little thing here and there broke down what some would call arduous into effortless. These skills are classic like a strand of pearls. Do one little thing today that isn’t due til next week. [bctt tweet=”The key to becoming organized is to do one thing today for tomorrow” username=”yoginiqueen”]

    A Conscious Strategy 

    Becoming organized will take some conscious strategizing on your part. You’ll have to play detective with your own habits. What do you hate about your day? How would you like to re-write that story? If it is your desk, start there. If it is the fact you never know what to make for dinner, begin to solve that problem. It is easier to maintain a system when it makes sense to you.


  • How to Crush Life With A Resource Mindset

    How to Crush Life With A Resource Mindset

    I was going to write a classic #howto develop a resource mindset but then I stopped myself. ‘How to’s’ and ‘guide to’s’ presume the reader knows nothing. That s/he needs advice. 

    It is my belief that you have a resource mindset inside of you. Whether you know it or not. And, that when you activate yours, you will be as one hockey friend used to say, “on fire!”.

    To help you activate your inner resourceful self, I thought I would share my story and values. If you relate in any way, the wisdom I have gained will fuel you to share with others.

    I also want to help you tap into your sense of confidence. Flick the switch and you can start using your resource mindset whenever possible. 

    What is a resource mindset? | resourcefulness definition
    What is Resourcefulness?

    If you want to crush life, a resource mindset is crucial. I know it helps me meet challenges. These are the moments when our innermost self shows up and says “show me what you’ve got or I’ll kick the shit out of you.”

    Just What is a Resource Mindset?

    A resource mindset is one that is pre-set to think outside the box. It is not daunted by an apparent lack of options and will keep trying to figure things out. I think it’s what my husband means when he calls me ‘tenacious.’

    Resourcefulness is a mindset, and is especially relevant when the goals you have set are difficult to achieve or you cannot envision a clear path to get to where you desire to go.

    Sherrie Campbell

    Is resourcefulness a skill?

    Yes, resourcefulness is a skill that can be practiced and learned. I learned it at the foot of my grandmother when I watched her bake. She managed to take what she had and make it work.

    Being a yoga student and yoga therapist also taught me how to adapt practices to an individual. It showed me you have to think on your feet and be in the moment. There isn’t a text book solution to every problem. 

    When you think there is only one way of doing things, you may be right. But what happens when circumstances change? Will you be able to handle life’s challenges without an open mind? [bctt tweet=”A resourceful mindset is the queen of problem-solving #resourcefulness ” username=”@yoginiqueen”]
    Resourcefulness is the queen of problem-solving. It is the knowledge that there is another solution and it will present itself.

    What is an example of resourcefulness?

    A perfect example of resourcefulness is lemonade. “When you have lemons, make lemonade”. That’s as classic a statement as a pearl necklace.  Lemons means anything that is unpalatable (sour). Adding some simple ingredients like patience (sugar) and fluidity (water), you get a whole new experience. 

    How Can I Be Resourceful?

    To be resourceful, practice giving up the outcome and sometimes, the goal.

    Surrendering all thoughts of outcome,

    unperturbed, self reliant, 

    he does nothing at all, even

    when fully engaged in actions.

    Bhagavad Gita A New Translation, Stephen Mitchell

    Below, I talk about five ways I practice the resource mindset in my life. My hope is that you will tap into this energy when obstacles rear their heads.

    • Rewrite your story. If life knocks you down, that is ok. Do your best to take a next step when you are ready. It’s not over. What other tools do you have at your disposal? Is there something you can do instead?” These are some questions that surf in a resource mindset. Hint, “I can’t do it” is not resourceful. Say “I can learn to do that”, “I won’t do that”, or something like “I can do it another way, but not the way I hoped.” Instead of “I don’t have that” say, “this is what I have”. What story could you re-write in order to come to a new point of view?
    • Figure it out. I used to find it annoying when people (you know who you are) would say, “we’ll figure it out”. I felt like it was a way of blowing things off. In fact, it is a great example of the resource mindset. It says, “I don’t know how now, but when it comes time, I trust I will know what to do.” Is there any situation where you could hit the pause button until the answer is clear to you?
    • Prepare yourself in increments. My grandmother used to prepare for trips a week ahead. She also prepared for family holidays like Passover, several weeks in advance. She did a little bit each day. I try to integrate this lesson by doing something today that will ease my tomorrow. Writing forward is one example. Is there any one thing you could do today to work towards a goal? 
    • Adapt and respond. Adapting isn’t always fun, don’t get me wrong. It is hard work. But just think about this: Which is stronger, water or steel? Water is the more powerful. Learn from water to be fluid and responsive. Think of yourself as a great chef who makes the most amazing tomato sauce with tomatoes, salt, pepper and a drizzle of olive oil. How do you feel when you have fewer resources? Can you simplify?
    • Repurpose. Repurposing is a deep tissue massage for your resource mindset. I’m guilty of that as a writer. (See this vs that article). I’ve taken one message and written it for two distinct audiences. This action has helped me stretch my creative muscles. Truth be told, I also repurpose old t-shirts into pj’s. What old trick can you do in a new way?

    The minute you practice one of these concepts in your own life is the minute you own your resource mindset. Go try!