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!


Copyright: gustavofrazao / 123RF Stock Photo

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!


Copyright: convisum / 123RF Stock Photo

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!


Copyright: imagesourceprem / 123RF Stock Photo

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.


Copyright: stockasso / 123RF Stock Photo