Time to Get Back Up

Looking for the perfect job can be hard for many people, but even more so when you have been fired.  For many, it can take weeks, even months to come back from that!  However, one of the worst things you can do when being fired is wallow in your bad luck.  Sure, take a day, or two, to feel bad, but then, it is time to get back up and start that job search.

Studies have shown that the longer you take to get back up after being fired, the harder it will be to get that job search going.  Sure, you may have fallen, but you must get back up!  After you have taken a couple of days, here are the most important things you can do to get your job search started:

• Time to dust off that resume.  Take the time to update it, add some keywords, and make sure that it is ready to go.  While you will tweak it based on the positions you apply for, if you take the time to get the basics updated, it will be easier to complete when applying.
• Make a list of those that you can ask to give you a recommendation letter, then contact them.  It is important that you get your recommendation letters together before you start applying so they are ready to go.
• Now you can begin searching for the perfect job.  Take a moment before you begin your search and make sure that you truly know what job you want.  Maybe it is time for a change, or think outside the box for something totally different.  You want a position that you are passionate about.
• Start applying for positions that fit what you are looking for – do not apply for every job you see.  It is best to be selective and apply only for those that you truly know will make you happy.

It can be hard to get up and get out there after you have been fired, however, after you have had your couple of days of mourning, it is time to get back up and get back out there!


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Supporting Work Life Balance

When it comes to attracting quality candidates, and then keeping those candidates once they become employees, you must consider the importance of supporting their work life balance.  As many employers are learning, this balance is one of the most important aspects to a job candidate and employee today.

When you fully support a work life balance, you will suddenly see more quality candidates, as your current employees will provide great information for those looking to apply.  This balance has become the number one area that candidates seek when researching companies, and should be the number one area you concentrate on perfecting.  Here are some strategies you can use:

• Self-care is a key component of work life balance; therefore, you must provide ways to support that self-care.  This could be allowing time off for de-stress activities, or even offering in company chair massages weekly, a quiet area for some down time, or even a daily yoga class.
• Many studies have shown that most employees have their most creative moments during their down time.  Allow your employees to have down time, by creating a guilt-free environment.  This will optimize creativity and productivity.
• Negativity is a killer in many ways.  Find ways to keep negativity out of the work environment and replace it with optimism and positivity.  This may be allowing a place for employees to voice their frustrations, and even receive free advice and help when needed.
• You MUST lead by example.  As the hiring manager, not only are candidates looking at you, but company managers, employees, and the owner will look to you.  Remember the importance of your own work life balance, and practice it.

Work life balance has become the number one benefit candidates are searching for today.  It is important that your company support this balance and find ways to foster it.  Some of these strategies can help you get your balance in order!


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Job Search Mishaps

While the job search may seem very straightforward to most, it can be full of mishaps and wrong turns.  As you navigate through your job search, it is important that you avoid job search mishaps at all costs.  Failure to do so, may lead to a longer unemployment than you would like.  Here are a few common mishaps to steer clear of during your job search:

• You have probably heard it a million times, your resume is a reflection (or picture) of you.  This is why, it is so important to not use a generic resume or template resume.  Make your resume unique to you, your skills, and your personality.  This will help your resume stand out, giving yours a better chance of going in the interview pile.
• Contrary to what you might believe, applying for as many jobs as you can is not an effective way to gain employment.  You might think printing dozens of resumes and generic cover letters will save you money and time.  However, hiring managers can spot this a mile away.  It is important that every position you apply for have a resume generated specially for that job!  Tailor each cover letter to hit the hot spots the hiring manager is looking to correct.
• One of the biggest mishaps during a job search is coming on too strong.  You may be desperate to get the position, but NEVER show that to anyone in the company you have applied.  There is a popular analogy, treat every job application and interview like it was a date.  You need to look nice, give all the right answers, but if you come on too strong, you will never get a second date.  The same is true when you are job searching!

Job search mishaps happen – everyday.  However, if you steer clear of these common mistakes, you will have a better chance of landing the job of your dreams!


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It’s More Than Hiring a Warm Body

Recruiters and hiring managers today are faced with many obstacles in filling their open positions.  However as you well know, it is more than just hiring a warm body to fill a spot.  Hiring the right person today means finding a candidate that not only has the skill set, but fits in with the company culture, and is in it for the long haul.

Let’s face it, the hiring landscape has changed dramatically over the last decade, and continues to change daily.  As older workers start to retire and slow down, the younger, more eager generation is stepping in.  And, they require and expect a very different experience when looking for their next job.  Here are just a few tips to keep in mind as you continue your hiring:

• Remember that you are looking to hire more than just a warm body – you are looking for a good fit.  You must do the necessary legwork to get good quality candidates applying for your positions, and make the right hire.  This may mean you need to meet with managers of the position and get more in-depth information about exactly what they need and want.  It may also mean that you will need to craft your description and ad so candidates with specific skills and personalities apply.
• You have heard it many times before, you must look at your hiring process.  Today, it is during the hiring process that most candidates are lost.  If your process is too long or is too cumbersome for the candidate, they will go elsewhere.  Take the time to make sure every step is necessary, and streamline where you can.
• Candidates today want to be kept informed.  It is important that you stay in touch with candidates throughout the entire process.  It all starts with your response to their application, and continues until you offer the position.  And, for those who you do not offer a position – keep in touch – you never know when something they will be perfect for will surface.

You are well aware that hiring for your open positions is more than just hiring a warm body, it takes work!  Make sure you are following the simple tips here to keep your hiring process at its best.


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Job Search Tips for the Shy Candidate

It can be a real struggle for job candidates that are shy and withdrawn.  While they will apply for many positions, they often hope their skills will stand for them and they will not need to step outside their comfort zone and network with anyone.  



If this sounds like you, here are a few job search tips you can use: 

• While networking is probably one of the scariest things you could ever do, you must network.  You have heard the phrase, practice makes perfect and it is true in this case.  The more you network, the easier it will become.  Practice your “elevator pitch,” and put it on the backside of your business cards.  Start by handing out your business cards at a networking event, and slowly work up to actually giving your pitch in person. 
• As you start attending more networking events, look for the opportunity to find a mentor, someone who you connect with.  This will allow you to build a relationship, and give you more confidence in speaking with strangers.  In addition, it is ok to look for opportunities to have a private meeting with someone at a networking event.  As you listen to others, find those that you feel a connection to and ask them to lunch.  If you have trouble asking them in person, make sure you get their business card and email the invite. 
• Take advantage of the internet in your job search.  Because you can interact online with hiring managers, recruiters, company employees, etc., it can help calm your fears ahead of the interview.  Learn everything you can, ask questions, and get to know the people involved in the company.  This will make it less about going in to talk with strangers, as going in to talk with someone you know. 

Just because you are shy, does not mean you cannot network and get the job of your dreams.  Consider these tips to help you overcome your shyness and meet the people that will help you get that job.

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Hiring Generation Z

As generation Z begins hitting the workforce, many hiring managers and recruiters are struggling to understand them and what they want.  Just as you were starting to understand the Millennial generation, you now have to learn about hiring generation Z.  Here are a few tips to help you in your hiring efforts: 

• This generation is looking to make an impact.  They want to impact their careers, others around them, and change the world, however, they do not want to do this for companies that are considered “big-box.”  They want to work for employers with less than a few hundred employees.  Generation Z does not want to get lost in the shuffle, and they feel that they can have the greatest impact on a smaller company.  They must believe in your mission, vision, and company goals, and understand how they are similar to their own goals.  When looking to attract this generation, focus on showcasing the company’s message. 
• As with many generations today, they are also looking for the perfect work-life balance.  They are interested in fulfilling the desires, both work related and personal.  You will find they question and challenge many things, only because they are so passionate about improving.  They will have different opinions on their perfect balance, and will not be afraid to ask for what they want.  If you are looking to hire this generation, then you must be open to thinking outside the box. 
• Innovation and technology are part of the norm for generation Z, therefore they will expect whatever company they work for to also embrace both.  While they look at the “big picture,” they want a company that is willing to advance with technology and be innovative in their thinking.  This is how they have been raised – find a solution. 

When you begin looking to hire generation Z, consider these tips.  While they have a few similar traits of Millennials, their appreciation for leadership and companies that want to lead by example, will attract them to you!

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Are Leadership Qualities a Must?

Are leadership qualities a must on your resume?  While there are many different opinions on the importance of leadership qualities, most will tell you that having leadership skills that transfer to other areas are important to hiring managers and recruiters.  Here are a few areas that leadership skills will help with, and that hiring managers will want in their candidates: 

• Being a team player is a trait that every hiring professional wants to see on a resume.  Leadership helps to build this skill and often shows collaboration, conflict management, and team building skills.   
• Communication is a great asset in any job, and the job candidates that can demonstrate they have good communication skills will have an advantage over those who do not.  To become a leader, you typically must have excellent communication and listening skills. 
• How do you handle criticism, as well as hand it out?  Your feedback skills go hand in hand with leadership.  Feedback is critical in today’s work environment; therefore, you must have these skills. 
• Being a leader often involves dealing with sensitive issues.  It is not so much how you dealt with the issue itself, but how you handled the people involved.  Demonstrating the ability to get things done, while still appealing to the empathy of the situation is important as a leader. 
• Leaders take action – this is what most hiring managers are looking for.  It is not about sitting on the sideline while others make the decisions and then you follow – no you are out there making suggestions and leading the fight. 

Leadership qualities are a skill that every hiring manager looks for on a resume.  Do you have any of the qualities listed here?  If so, you might be a leader without really knowing.  Take the time to develop your leadership skills, it will help your career.


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What Type are You?

Hiring managers and recruiters are diverse and unique individuals.  Most would say it is a prerequisite to working in the field.  However, each professional has a different way they handle their hiring strategies, and make sense of their profession.  What type of professional are you?  



It is important that you recognize and determine what type of hiring professional you are.  Why?  When you understand what type you are, you can then embrace the situation or make a decision to make some changes.  The choice is yours….. 

• If you have been called “old-school” or a traditionalist, you most likely follow old stand fast rules of hiring and do not plan on changing anytime soon.  While you may use some technology, you are a believer of human interaction and making deals on a handshake.  While this type of person is great when hiring someone from an older generation, it will be difficult to appeal to the younger generation. 

• Are you a closer?  You might be the type that can close any candidate, and while you care about what they want, once the deal is closed, you move on to the next.  You do not care to have a relationship with the candidate ongoing.  With the trends moving towards building relationships, you might want to rethink your closing techniques a little. 

• A great networker might also be referred to as the social butterfly, however, it is because of the relationships you build and foster that allow you to fill positions.  Be careful you do not lose sight of the end result and get swept away with just building relationships. 

• If you have been called a whisperer, you most likely have your pulse on all things recruiting and hiring.  You have the perfect combination of “old-school”, closing, and networking that attracts and retains great talent.   

No matter what type of hiring manager or recruiter you are, there is always room to grow.  Consider these types – what type are you?  Do you need to make any changes?

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Job Candidate Blogging

Over the last several years, there has been a lot of information and commentary regarding whether job candidates should have a blog when they are searching for jobs. The pros and cons of blogging have been discussed by many, and in the end, job candidates are still unsure whether it is a good idea.  Job candidate blogging may be a good idea for these reasons: 

• While not every position requires the ability to write articles, it is still a good idea to show that you have the ability to put together information.  Whether you enjoy writing or not, having a blog will allow you to show off your writing abilities to potential employers. 
• A blog can show a hiring manager how you feel about certain topics.  Feel free to mix it up and write articles that show your personality.  You can write blog articles about hobbies, how-to articles on skills you use for work, and even your opinion on new or upcoming trends. 
• Your blog can also help you network with others, which could also benefit your job search.  Go ahead and join some networking groups, post comments on other blogs, and always respond to comments on your post.  This also will show potential employers that you can communicate and get along with others. 
• Blogging can help you build who you are, or build your personal brand.  This is useful when a hiring manager does an online search for you.  Yes, they will search you out online!  A blog will show them that you stay active and are current on trends, etc. 

Even if you are not searching for a job today, you should still start a blog.  If and when the time comes to start searching for a job, it will be a great tool to use in showcasing you and your talents.  Get started with a blog today!


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Successful Remote Work Perk

What makes a successful remote work program for your company?  Do you even offer such a program during your hiring process?  Many companies today are considering the possibilities of offering remote work as part of their benefits package, for a variety of reasons.  

Here are just a few reasons why offering and implementing a remote work program can help your hiring efforts: 

• As society shifts and priorities change for the working force, many job candidates today are looking to work for companies that have more flexibility in when and how they work.  Society today is leading a very full life, therefore, offering remote work programs will help you attract a wider variety of candidates. 
• Companies that have implemented a remote work or flexible work program, have experienced increased retention rates.  Because they are making it easier for their employees to do their work, their employees are happier and typically do not look to leave. 
• Have you been looking for a job candidate with specific talent or skills, but are struggling to find it?  When you offer remote work options, you can cast a wider net, thereby giving you more talent in the pool to choose from.  Your perfect candidate may be hundreds of miles away, but offering remote work options, they could still be your best hire. 
• While many companies feel that measuring productivity would be difficult with a remote work program, it has found to be the opposite.  Typically, new measures will be put in place due to the remote work program, which can help increase productivity. 
• Communication is no problem either, with all the technology available today, you can work with a remote employee as if they were sitting right beside you. 

More and more companies are considering adding remote work programs to their hiring plans, and for good reason.  Remote and flexible work programs have proven to be effective in more ways than one, and typically end up saving the company money!  A win-win for everyone involved.

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Dispelled Myths for Job Candidates

It is no secret that the hiring process has changed over the last several years.  Whether you are new to the job search game, or have been at it for a while, there are always myths that float around, scaring job candidates.  Here are some dispelled myths for the job candidate:
 

• Contrary to popular belief, it will not help you to blast your resume out there.  Applying for as many jobs as you can, will not guarantee you success or a job offer.  This is one of the oldest myths out there today!  You are better to do your research and apply for only positions that fit you and your career goals. 
• In the past, it was difficult to find good information on employers you were applying to, however, in today’s technologic driven world, information is at your fingertips.  Finding valuable information on a company before you apply, and before your interview is as easy as doing an online search.  The information is out there – go get it. 
• What is important to you in the company you work for?  Your answer is probably different than the person next to you.  Each job candidate has a different set of “must haves” they are looking for, so to say that every candidate is looking for the best company perks is false.  Look for what is important to you! 
• Many job candidates falsely believe that “if they know someone” or “they play the system,” they will get the job.  While networking is incredibly important in finding a job, you still have to prove during the interview that you are the right choice.  Don’t get cocky thinking the job is yours simply because you know someone – put in the work and prove you are the best for the job.  

So many job candidates have fallen for classic myths over the years, if I ask for a lower salary I am sure to get the job, if I have a friend on the inside I am sure to get the job, etc.  While some instances may help you land the interview, it still does not guarantee you the job.  Make sure you know the truth and stay clear of the myths – you will stand a better chance of finding the job of your dreams.

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Best Job Candidate References

A normal part of your hiring process is checking references on job candidates, however, for decades hiring managers have been checking references with supervisors and managers only.  While these references are important, even more important, is what the job candidate’s coworkers think.  If you are looking to get the best job candidate references, ask your candidates to list past coworkers as references.  Here is why: 

• Past supervisors and managers typically will give you canned responses when you ask for a reference on a candidate.  They will typically answer yes and no questions regarding dependability, reliability, meeting deadlines, etc.  This information is important, but only tells part of the story. 
• Past coworkers have “been in the trenches” with the candidate, and typically will shed more light on their true work habits.  They can give you specific information on how they handle stress, how helpful they are, and their personality on the job. 
• Past coworkers are not bound by the normal corporate “red tape” that many supervisors and managers are bound by, therefore, they can give you more than a yes or no answer.  You can ask them to elaborate on a comment or give you specific examples.  This can help you get a clearer image of the job candidate. 
• Personality and fitting into company culture is difficult to ascertain, however, when you ask these questions of past coworkers, you are more likely to get the real truth about how they fit in.  Did everyone like working with the candidate or was the candidate difficult to get along with. 

Checking references of a job candidate with their prior supervisors and managers is a good idea, it can reveal a high level of information about the foundation of the candidate.  However, if you want to learn more about the true personality, behavior, and work ethic of a candidate, you should ask for prior coworkers references as well.

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Welcome Negative Feedback

As you continue through your job search, there is one area which many job candidates steer clear of, getting feedback from hiring managers when they do not get the job.  Instead, you should welcome negative feedback.  When you ask for honest feedback, even if negative, it can help you improve in many ways.



Here are a few tips to keep in mind when asking for feedback: 

• As part of your interview, you know you should always follow up with a thank you, however, if you do not get offered the position, you should follow up again with the hiring manager.  Ask the hiring manager why you were passed over.  Many find it hard to ask this question, but it can reveal information about your interviewing skills, holes in your presentation, or lack of skills for that particular position.  Bottom line, it will give you valuable information. 
• Some job candidates have had good success in asking for feedback at the end of their interview.  Asking for constructive criticism is a great way to show the hiring manager you want to improve and are honestly interested in their opinion.  Be careful you do not turn it into an uncomfortable situation by asking too many questions, but asking how you can improve is a great question. 
• Many recruiting firms will also help you with feedback.  They can coach you through interviewing, give you honest feedback, and help you discern what is important to work on. 

As you gather your feedback, both positive and negative, you should take it seriously.  Are you sensing a common theme in your feedback, is there something you can improve upon, or do you need to sharpen your skills?  Feedback is important during your job search, especially negative feedback.  It may be hard to accept, but in reality, it could be the best feedback you ever receive.


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Smart Recruiting Through Candidate Experience

Do you struggle with your hiring, or worse yet with retaining those hires?  Unfortunately, you are not alone, however, several companies have begun a different approach to their hiring and retention efforts.  They have implemented some smart recruiting techniques that are centered around the candidate experience. 

Job candidates today are looking for companies that have a culture that fits their lifestyle and goals, therefore, it makes sense to incorporate that culture into your hiring process.  Here are a few ways you can use your company’s culture to enhance the candidate’s experience: 
 

• Is your company culture one of excellent communication, meeting goals, and setting expectations?  No matter what type of culture you have, it is important that you communicate that during the hiring process.  If communication is one of your strong points – show that off during hiring process by communicating effectively and efficiently.  If meeting goals is a strong point, show candidates that their career goals are important and how aligned they are with your very own goals. 
• Consider using various points throughout your company to showcase the culture.  This could be anything from holding interviews in an outside gazebo, inviting candidates to company functions, and allowing candidates to sit in on team meetings. 
• Many companies that have implemented smart recruiting have incorporated a work week candidate experience.  Allowing top candidates to “come to work” for a week and get the true experience of being there is eye opening to many candidates.  They get to experience work life first hand, versus hearing it from anyone. 
• The number one complaint among job candidates is the onboarding process, therefore, make sure that the onboarding process is also an experience.  Ask these candidates what they need when starting, listen to what they say, and give them the tools they need to succeed. 

The job candidate’s experience during the hiring process can have a profound effect on your hiring efforts and your retention.  Understand that smart recruiting and the candidate experience go hand in hand.

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Tools and Tactics of Networking

You have heard it a million times before – networking is critical to your job search.  In fact, recent studies indicate that more than 85% of all jobs are acquired through networking.  Just this statistic alone is enough to show you the importance of networking and why you must have the proper tools and tactics. 

Here are some of the most important tools and tactics you need for networking during your job search: 

• You must have business cards when you network.  Yes, that means you too!  You need to have something to hand out to people when you meet them, and a business card will provide them with your contact information. 
• Want to take it a step further than business cards?  Consider creating a one-page handbill.  This is a great document to have at a networking event.  It does not replace your resume, but instead is just a quick glance type of document that will summarize your skills and experience, and has all of your contact information.  It can also refer people to your website or social media profiles.  A great way to “wet the appetite” of a potential employer. 
• It is important that you send thank you notes to everyone you meet while networking.  Immediately after a networking event, take out the business cards you collected and make notes about your conversations for each.  Then you can personalize your thank you cards. 
• Remember that your connections from networking should be quality connections – it is not about the quantity.  Quality connections will help you! 
• One of the most important things you can do while networking is listen.  The information you collect at a networking event can help your career more than talking with everyone there.  Make sure you listen carefully, take mental notes, and contribute to the conversation when appropriate. 

There are many valuable tools and tactics when networking, however, these will help you during your job search, as well as help you grow your career. 

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