Professor Dunn,

Another letter from one of your Roosevelt University students! Woo hoo! Hope you've been well. :) 

I'm about to change careers and head into the exciting world of... accounting! Ta-da! It's a pretty different field than my previous jobs, and I'm excited... but nervous about the interview. 

It's been a trying year, careerwise, and I'm anxious and excited to leave the negative behind and move forward (full speed ahead!) on this new path. But, if I'm being honest, I am feeling a little intimidated by this whole process, and any coaching you could pass along to ease my nerves (and maybe give me an attitude adjustment) would be greatly appreciated!

You're the best!

Peace,
Cortney Wolfson

Dear Cortney,

The topic of attitude is very timely as you begin the process of a career change. More and more leaders have come to the realization that while you can change people's habits to a point, hiring the right attitude is more important that ever. A person's attitude impacts all stakeholders in the business: the customer, team members, the boss etc. They impact not only their own department and team but others who are indirectly negatively impact by a bad "tude!" It becomes a very big challenge once you have hired a bad attitude. The process to rid the organization of this bad egg, either by showing them how to be constructive or showing them the door, is grueling.

Leading today is a tough enough challenge; dealing with employees with attitude problems can drag down the entire team. While they may perform at a high level and deliver excellent results, their negative attitude  can make the work environment impossible for everyone around them. 

So, first take inventory of "your attitude" and see how people would perceive you at the point of contact.  As you write your letter of introduction and resume, remember the kind of attitude you would hire. Let the company know that you have the skills to do the job, but, more importantly, you have the attitude to excel.
 
It's the little things that make a difference. How you answer the phone. How you write your emails. How your voicemail message portrays you. How you shake hands. How you dress for each opportunity in life. Finally, how you answer questions at your interview about how would you contribute to the success of the company (ie. "why you vs. other candidates").

Your attitude will shine through more than your words will ever say about you.  All of these things define your brand and what the company gets when they get "Brand Courtney!"

Please keep me posted on your progress. Make it a great day! (It's your choice!)
 
live strong,

kevin e. dunn