Boosting Productivity with Innovative Shift Scheduling for Working Parents
In the fast-paced world of athletic apparel manufacturing, maintaining optimal productivity levels and ensuring shifts are fully staffed present ongoing challenges. At MS-IL Staffing & Packaging, we’re proud to share our success in addressing these issues for a prominent Midwest athletic apparel brand, showcasing the power of innovative shift scheduling for working parents.
Facing the Challenge
Like many businesses these days, finding reliable workers for every shift was getting harder. This was causing headaches for our client, a well-known athletic apparel manufacturer, who needed a smart plan to make sure their shifts were always covered, so they could keep making their products efficiently.
Our Innovation
After thorough analysis and innovative thinking, we crafted a customized & innovative shift model catering specifically to working parents: The Working Parent Shift. Our research identified a significant segment of the workforce—parents eager for employment opportunities that matched their family commitments, especially the school schedules of their children. They looked for roles that would allow them to manage school drop-offs and pickups without compromising their professional responsibilities.
Crafting the Solution
The Working Parent Shift emerged from this insight, serving as a dual-benefit model that addressed both the manufacturer’s needs for reliable shift coverage and the employees’ lifestyle preferences.
The Happy Results
This new shift was a hit:
Productivity went through the roof, hitting levels they’d never seen before.
Very few employees left their jobs, showing they were really happy with the new setup.
The whole workplace felt better, with employees enjoying their jobs more.
What We Learned
This story shows that being flexible and understanding what workers need can make a big difference. It’s not just about filling job spots; it’s about finding solutions that work for everyone, making the company and its employees happier and more productive.
For businesses encountering similar staffing challenges, embracing innovative solutions like the Working Parent Shift can be transformative. Connect with MS-IL Staffing & Packaging to explore how we can tailor workforce management solutions to meet your unique needs.
Let us be your labor advantage in navigating the complexities of modern staffing requirements.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
When you have a lot going on at work, you may begin to feel your stress levels rising. If you have various deadlines and responsibilities to meet, it’s important to find time to manage your stress by using relaxation methods. Doing so can not only help you feel calmer, but it can also give you the motivation you need to take on your next task. In this article, we share 11 tips and techniques to help you relax at work.
Why is it important to find ways to relax at work?
Finding ways to relax at work is important for the following reasons:
Combat feelings of burnout: When you’re feeling stress for prolonged periods of time, you may experience burnout at work. By finding ways to relax during a busy day, you can feel more committed to your work and increase your longevity at a job.
Feel more productive: Stress can often get in the way of being your most productive self. When you can relax and clear your mind, you may feel more refreshed and energized to get back to work.
Enjoy your work more: Feeling relaxed as you do your work can increase your job satisfaction. By managing your stress levels, you can remember why you were drawn to this profession.
Have a positive attitude: When you feel relaxed, you are more likely to treat yourself and others with kindness. Finding relaxation techniques can help you feel calm and able to have a positive mindset.
Here are 11 ways you can manage your stress levels and relax at work:
Enjoy some fresh air
If you are able, take your work breaks outside. Consider taking a brief walk outside, enjoying the sights and sounds around you. Feel the sunshine on your face and try to live in this present moment. As you appreciate the world around you, take in some deep breaths. This quick change of scenery can help you feel refreshed and ready to get back to work in a better headspace.
Try aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a holistic treatment where you use scents to evoke certain feelings of health and well-being. Consider finding scents that promote feelings of relaxation in yourself. For instance, breathing in peppermint or lavender can help you feel refreshed and calm. There are many ways to try aromatherapy, with diffusers, aromatic spritzers and lotions being common ways to enjoy your favorite scents.
Practice meditation
Taking even 10 minutes before work to mediate can help you come into the office with a better, more relaxed mindset. Start by solely focusing on your breath, while making an effort to keep your mind free of any thoughts. While meditation can take quite a bit of practice and self-discipline, after a while, it can become an excellent relaxation technique. If you ever need to relax while at work, step away from your desk for a few minutes to focus on deep breathing.
Listen to calming music
Finding the right playlist can help you feel more relaxed at work. Consider listening to instrumental music quietly as you work. Many streaming services have curated playlists designed to promote better focus and relaxation. Music is a great way to change your mindset and feel centered as you work.
Taking care of yourself is an important part of being a calmer, more relaxed person. When feeling your stress levels rising, grab for a healthy snack rather than an overly processed one. Eating healthy food can help you feel more energized, which can make you feel more productive. By having the energy to get your work done, you’ll have more time to relax and unwind at the end of the workday.
Be mindful of your tension
As your stress levels increase, you may notice yourself clenching your jaw or tightening your shoulders. After a full day of this, your body may feel fatigued. That’s why it’s important to be aware of this tension as you work. Every so often, check-in with your body to make sure you are sitting in a comfortable position. Take a moment to scan each part of your body, making an effort to release any tension you have been building.
Socialize with coworkers
After focusing on your work for a while, you might benefit from some socialization. Use your breaks to have some light conversations with your coworkers. This is your chance to get to know them better and develop your professional relationships. Striking up a conversation can help you infuse some spontaneity into your workday and increase your well-being.
Do some stretches
Doing some stretches throughout your workday is good for your mental and physical well-being. After finishing a task, take a moment to get up from your desk to stretch out your body. Even walking around the office can help you feel more relaxed.
Drink more water
While coffee and other caffeinated drinks may help you feel more energized, they may not help you feel relaxed. Rather, they may make you feel hyper or jittery. That’s why it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated can help you feel your best.
Create your ideal work environment
Take some time to set up a relaxing workspace for yourself. Schedule time in your week to get your desk clean and organized. You may even be able to add some personalized touches that make you smile. Adding little trinkets, pictures and plants can make your workspace one-of-a-kind and help you feel relaxed.
Learn to say “no”
While it’s important to show that you are a helpful employee, it’s also important to know your limits. If your to-do list is already full, you may need to decline taking on additional work. By creating these boundaries, you can ensure you have enough time to get your priorities done at a steady pace. Then, if you have more time, you can choose to take on additional tasks.
“11 Simple Strategies to Relax at Work.” Indeed Career Guide, 15 Mar. 2021, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/ways-to-relax-at-work.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
Why is knowing how to find local jobs important?
Whether you want to find an open position within your current geographical area or you are looking to relocate to a new area, knowing where to look for local jobs is an important skill.
Narrowing your job search to a specific geographical area can improve your chances of finding a suitable position and being selected for the role following an interview. There’s a high number of available positions on the job market, and rather than searching through every possible option, you can save time by being efficient with your location filtering. Proper research will also help you better understand the local job market and the companies you apply to, which can help you during the interview process.
Consider these methods when looking for local jobs:
Use online job search engines
Modern job search engines allow users to fully customize their search, including filtering jobs based on city, state and ZIP code. If you are open to commuting, you can also search for jobs within a predefined radius from the specific area you are interested in. Another useful function is the job alert, which sends you a message when companies post jobs on the website that fit your pre-selected criteria.
Examine the classifieds
The classifieds sections of local newspapers are also good places to find local job listings. Many small and medium-sized local companies prefer to advertise locally, meaning that you may find certain jobs in these ads that aren’t advertised anywhere else. Most local papers also have online versions, so you won’t need to buy physical copies. This method of finding local jobs works best if you search every day over a prolonged period of time because companies post new openings every day.
Many jobs are advertised locally through various resources, such as the local chamber of commerce. If the company that advertises the job ad is a member of a local chamber, they will likely post the opportunity on the chamber’s website before adding it anywhere else. Local websites like this are a great tool for finding jobs within a specific area.
Research local companies
You can use local company directories to discover potentially attractive organizations and then inquire regarding open positions. This will help you better understand the local job market and give you the image of a proactive job seeker.
Follow local news
If you’re constantly up to date with the latest events surrounding the local business community, you’re more likely to discover job openings. By following business news, you will know about any new organizations moving into your area as well as any expansions and downsizes. Any of these organizational changes can lead to new job openings. Following local news will also help you identify the most important companies in the area, which often have the most employees.
Join local online message boards
Community message boards are a great way to keep up to date with relevant events within a geographical area. Small and medium-sized enterprises may also use these message boards to ask the community for recommendations after they’ve decided to hire new personnel. Researching online message boards on a daily basis is likely to help you find local job opportunities.
Visit local career fairs
Most areas have regular career fairs, and they are a great way to help you understand the nature of the local job market. These fairs represent a unique opportunity to get a group of potential employers from an area in the same building, allowing you to directly compare what they have to offer and introduce yourself to hiring managers.
Use your network
Discussing your job search with your connections can be an efficient way to find local jobs. Make a list of all your contacts that work within the specific area that interests you, and inquire regarding any job openings at the companies they work for. Someone may know that their company is hiring for a particular position, or they may have heard about a position opening up in the near future.
Apply to all companies that interest you
Look up local companies that you would like to work for, and send their HR departments a direct email. Even companies that don’t have any advertised open positions may be interested in you, but you won’t know whether they are until you reach out. For example, they might be expanding and constantly looking for new talent, or they could be about to post a relevant job opening.
Hire a local career counselor
Career counselors have extensive knowledge regarding the local job market, the kinds of roles that are currently available and the expectations of local companies. They can help you research the right positions and assist you as you work on your skills. Their goal is to help you improve your odds of being selected for relevant roles.
Following local employers on social media is an effective job search resource. You can also join public conversations that involve company employers and management in order to cultivate a relationship with the companies and get a better understanding of their company culture. Just remember not to post anything on social media that could be viewed as controversial—even if it doesn’t have to do with your job search—because it could affect your odds of being considered for open positions.
Visit the local library
Visiting the library or accessing its website can reveal many job searching tools, such as educational materials, classes, programs and more. Libraries also provide computers with internet access that are available to visitors. You might even be able to discover job search workshops and job clubs that can offer you advice and help you discover local jobs that suit your skill set.
“12 Ways to Find Local Jobs.” Indeed Career Guide, 22 Feb. 2021, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/find-local-jobs.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
It’s up to an individual to determine what success looks like and find ways to reach these aspirations. In this article, we share ways to define personal success and how to define success for yourself.
15 ways to define success
Here are 15 unique definitions of success:
Success is having wealth and power
For many people, having wealth and power is how they would define success. Reaching a point in your career when you make a lot of money and are in a leadership position can be quite an accomplishment. What’s important is realizing this isn’t the sole definition of success. While money and power can get you what you want, they won’t necessarily help you live a fulfilling life.
Success is having wisdom
Those in the latter stages of their careers may find that they have gained wisdom throughout the years. Having wisdom means that you possess experience, knowledge and good judgment. Being able to think critically about a variety of situations and pass your knowledge onto others are important skills to develop throughout life. By gaining all kinds of career experiences, you can gain new insights and life lessons.
Success is achieving mindfulness
Mindfulness is being able to live in the moment. As many people focus on the past and future, it can be challenging to focus on the present. You may find that learning to be present is a great success. One way to do this is by resetting the way you think. Being aware of your thoughts, surroundings and feelings can help you be more mindful. Techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can also help you learn to be more present.
Success is having self-confidence
Finding your self-confidence is a journey for many people. Having this sense of confidence can help you be more open to trying new things and chasing different opportunities. A few ways to improve your confidence are to focus on your strengths, practice positive thinking, develop new skills, surround yourself with uplifting people and learn from your mistakes.
There is always room for improvement, making it important to find opportunities to grow in your career. You can get started by seeing if your employer offers any career development opportunities. Attending conferences, lectures and seminars are great ways to develop your career. You may even want to consider enrolling in some continuing education classes to learn a particular skill.
Success is giving back
Finding a job that allows you to support yourself while helping others is a major accomplishment. Being able to give back to your community or a cause that you support is a good feeling. Even if your job makes this challenging to do, you could find ways to help people outside of work. For instance, volunteering your time or donating to charities are great ways to help.
Achieving a work-life balance is an important part of feeling happy. When you have time for your hobbies and interests outside of work, you can feel more recharged and ready for the next workday. One way to start finding balance is by turning off your work notifications when you get home. Make it clear to your team that you are only available during work hours.
Success is knowing your values
Taking some time to reflect on your values is important. This way, you can learn to make better decisions at work. When you behave based on your values, you tend to feel better about your actions and more confident in your decisions.
Success is surrounding yourself with good people
Surrounding yourself with positive and uplifting people can help you live a more successful life. When you notice someone has a good attitude at work, try to gravitate toward this person. Working with kind and caring people can help you develop these attributes in yourself.
Success is building something you’re proud of
Those with an entrepreneurial mindset see success as building something they are proud of. While starting a new business is a lot of work, it can pay off immensely. Along with being your own boss, you can set out to provide services and goods people can benefit from.
Success is knowing your boundaries
Learning how to set boundaries is an important part of being able to manage your work. It takes self-discipline to learn how to say “no” to certain tasks or responsibilities. By setting your boundaries right away, people can learn to respect them.
Success is being a lifelong learner
There are always new things to learn, no matter what stage you are at in your career. Lifelong learners are always trying to find new ways to expand their knowledge. You can do this by reading books, keeping up with current affairs, listening to podcasts and attending educational courses. Try to surround yourself with people of different backgrounds to immerse yourself in new perspectives and ideas.
Success is overcoming challenges
Working to overcome challenges in your career is a big part of finding your success. Think of what barriers you hope to break over the course of your career, whether they be learning a new skill or facing a challenging situation.
Success is embracing your interests
Finding ways to incorporate your interests into your work can make you feel more satisfied with your career path. Even just making time outside of work to pursue your interests can help you feel more successful.
Success is feeling good about your choices
There may be times in your career when your integrity is challenged. Even if the right choice is the harder choice, making good decisions can help you feel good at the end of the day.
Follow these steps when defining success for yourself:
1. Reflect on your accomplishments
When defining success for yourself, think about your previous accomplishments. Determine why you consider these feats to be achievements. By taking a moment to reflect on your accomplishments, you can figure out your values and what is important to you. Ask yourself the following questions:
How did this accomplishment make me feel?
Why did I care about working toward this goal?
Would I want to work toward similar goals in the future?
How do my accomplishments impact my life?
How do my accomplishments impact others?
2. Go beyond social norms
Rather than letting society define success for you, determine what you think matters. When constantly striving toward other’s expectations, you are forgetting to focus on your own wants and needs. While some people may see money as success, others may find things like creative freedom or a flexible lifestyle more important.
3. Think big and small
Think of career success as a multi-level system. You can work toward all kinds of goals throughout your career to achieve different levels of success. For instance, if you complete all of your tasks on time, you could say that you had a successful day. If you got a major promotion, you could say you had a successful year. By focusing on both short-term and long-term goals, you can find continuous success. Even breaking your larger goals into many smaller ones makes it much easier for you to stay on track toward reaching your goals.
4. Make a plan of action
Once you decide what success looks like to you, figure out how you’re going to start working toward your achievements. By writing down a list of steps you need to complete, you can be a bit more realistic about what you can accomplish.
“15 Ways to Define Personal Success.” Indeed Career Guide, 5 Jan. 2021, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/define-success.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
10 job searching resources
If you’ve been job searching for longer than you’d like to admit, you may feel like you’ve thought of every possible way to find your next job opportunity. Don’t lose hope. Here are 10 resources that will show the results you want to see:
1. Use job search websites
The digital age has made the process of searching for information extremely efficient. Indeed’s career site offers a variety of helpful features designed to help job seekers find what they’re looking for right away. You can search instantly for jobs by entering your information into the “what” and “where” search bars of the homepage.
Follow these steps for an enhanced user experience:
Create a free account on Indeed.com, then upload your resume or create one.
Look for jobs by location in the search bar.
Filter results by job type, location, company or experience level.
Set up job alerts for a curated list of jobs emailed to you periodically.
Research average salaries by company and job title.
You can learn a lot about a company by looking at reviews left by its current and past employees. Indeed’s company pages provide an excellent resource for those who want additional insight into a company’s culture. If you don’t have a particular company in mind, you can browse company reviews by category to see a curated list of workplaces.
Popular career networking sites can provide you with the right connections for a job. Review your list of connections. You may want to reach out to past coworkers to see what they’ve been up to. Mention that you’re looking for a job and ask if they know of any great companies who are hiring. Even if they don’t know of any open positions within the company they work for, they might be able to put you in touch with other connections in your field of interest.
4. Look up your industry association
Most job industries have a professional organization of some kind that can provide valuable resources, especially when you’re looking for a new job. Search online if you can’t immediately think of the specific name of the organization tied to your career. For instance, you might try typing your job title into the search engine bar with the words “organization” or “association” to see what results come up. You may find these websites include job listings and support for people just like you who are looking for assistance.
5. Check with your collegiate and corporate alumni networks
Consider your school of higher education. Whether you’re currently a student or have already graduated, you may not be aware of the resources available to you. Most colleges and universities have a career services center, even for alumni. You may be surprised at what they have to offer. Depending on your situation, you may even be able to ask your guidance counselor or a professor about job opportunities on campus. They may even be able to connect you with someone in your line of work.
Just like career-based organizations exist, so do career-based magazines and journals. Subscribe to the online version for the fastest look at their offerings. There are even magazines dedicated to helping people find jobs. Some focus more on providing the details of the company culture while others focus on ranking companies in a specific way.
7. Search local job boards and career fairs
Every community has an online presence in some form. Check your local news and media sites for community job boards. Search for the name of your town or region on social media sites and look for groups related to job networking or searching. You may find out about an upcoming career fair in your area where hiring managers are easily accessible. If you plan to attend a career fair, take your resume with you and dress professionally to make a good impression.
Many religious groups have job resources available to people who are looking for work. Contact the organizational head of your place of worship to inquire. You may find that they offer employment resources or are even currently hiring for positions themselves if you wish to work in a faith-based setting.
9. Enlist the help of your state Department of Labor office
You can find on-the-job training opportunities, services for job seekers and more through the help of your local government office. Staff members have been trained to assist people in finding employment. They also can recommend additional resources available that have been designed specifically for people who have been out of work. Search online to find your local department.
10. Company websites
Most businesses have a designated careers page. Some companies have thousands of jobs listed, while others only have a few. Try typing your desired job title into the search bar to see if any results appear. If you are open to a variety of job positions, you may try typing in the broad career term or searching by the department. If you can’t find a careers page, try contacting the company directly. Ask to speak with the human resources department to inquire about potential job positions.
“10 Job Searching Resources.” Indeed Career Guide, 3 May 2022, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/job-searching-resources.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
Working in a warehouse can offer you a successful and rewarding career. While working in a warehouse, regardless of the position you fill, there are good practices and methods to consider following to ensure safety in the workplace. If you’re interested in a job working within a warehouse, you may be curious to learn some tips that may help you stay safe in your role. In this article, we explore 11 different warehouse safety tips to consider.
11 warehouse safety tips
Here are 11 different tips to help ensure safety in the warehouse:
1. Keep your work area neat and organized
It’s important to ensure that your work area is orderly and clean at all times. If your work area is as clean as possible, there may be a lower chance of accidents happening within it. With a work area that has organization, it’s likely that you can find items quickly and easily. If possible, you may attempt to keep the entire warehouse as neat as possible so it can function in an efficient, safe manner. You can also encourage coworkers to do the same.
2. Become fluent in established safety protocols
Becoming fluent in all established safety measures, policies, protocols and methods can help you stay safe while on the job. Reading safety manuals and adhering to guidelines can help you understand what measures to take in order to stay safe and keep others safe while working. Communicating with coworkers about doing the same can help everyone in the warehouse stay as safe as possible.
It’s extremely important to wear appropriate attire in the workplace to keep yourself as safe as possible. For instance, if you work around heavy machinery, wear steel-toed boots to protect your feet. If you work in a warehouse that stores items in high piles, you may want to wear a hard hat while in those areas to protect your head from falling objects. If you work around large machines, it may be in your best interest to wear clothing that fits snugly as to not snag it on machines or other objects.
Some warehouses have requirements for what you’re expected to wear in the workplace, but not all do. Because of this, you may require conducting your own research on what type of clothing, accessories and footwear can keep you most safe while working. Additionally, some warehouses provide you with the type of clothing, personal protective equipment and gear you may to need to stay safe while working.
4. Operate equipment or machinery you’re certified to operate
It’s extremely important that the professionals who seek education before operating machinery and equipment, so they know how to properly and safely do so. Typically, only those who hold certifications to operate certain equipment and machinery can operate them in the warehouse. For instance, only those who hold forklift operation certifications should operate forklifts within the warehouse, since they’re fluent in being able to operate them safely and properly. Keeping with this rule can help ensure the safety of the operators and the other warehouse workers.
Holding practice drills for different emergency situations can increase the level of safety present and felt in the workplace. There are a variety of different drills the warehouse may benefit from conducting. For instance, you may hold drills for any natural disaster, fire or water-related accident. You may also hold drills for machinery or equipment malfunctioning, items or objects containing hazardous materials opening or breaking or similar instances that require immediate action in order to stay safe.
You may organize mandated practices drills and activate practice drills throughout the day during the implementation stages so the warehouse staff can experience them firsthand. Doing so can help ensure that you equip all warehouse staff with the knowledge and training they need to stay safe and remain prepared for any safety hazards that may arise in the future.
6. Establish forklift paths
If your warehouse uses forklifts to move objects and equipment from place to place, you may consider establishing dedicated forklift paths. Creating these paths can help warehouse employees stay out of the way of moving forklifts and possibly prevent any forklift-related accidents in the workplace. Hosting a training session and having informative maps and graphics posted all around the warehouse can ensure that forklift drivers are aware of these paths and always know where they are in the warehouse. Placing stickers on the ground detailing the exact forklift paths can be helpful to all who work in the warehouse.
It’s important to optimize the layout of the warehouse for both safety and work efficiency purposes. Setting up the warehouse in a manner that has a logical flow can help ease movements for both people and machinery. Having an orderly, understandable warehouse layout can also help employees respond to emergency situations in a timely and efficient manner if need be.
8. Supply personal protective equipment
Supplying personal protective equipment, or PPE, to all warehouse employees is important in ensuring that you protect them in the workplace. For instance, you may offer them hard hats or protective gloves to protect their heads and hands for the specific type of work they perform. Depending on the type of warehouse, there may be additional PPE needs, such as safety goggles or steel-toed boots that employees should have and wear as well.
Frequently inspecting all equipment, machinery and other objects or items that employees use in the workplace is essential. If you complete routine inspection, maintenance and repair, there’s likely a lower chance of these machines and equipment failing, breaking and possibly causing issues or injuries in the workplace. Even if there’s certain machinery or equipment that you rarely use, ensuring that they’re well-maintained and in perfect working condition can be helpful. This way, there’s also a higher level of safety available at all times when operating different types of equipment.
10. Foster communication
Fostering communication within the workplace at a warehouse can be beneficial in keeping all employees safe and healthy. Clearly communicating safety rules, regulations, methods, policies and standards can help ensure that everyone in the warehouse is up-to-date on all things safety-related. Doing so can help reduce the risk of injuries and health issues.
Soliciting information from warehouse employees can also help you gain insight into safety concerns that they may have that you haven’t yet addressed, which can be extremely helpful in creating safety plans. Doing so can also help boost employee morale as it allows employees a platform for them to express their ideas and thoughts to those in charge.
It’s especially important to host safety training sessions in the workplace at a warehouse so that all employees are fluent in the warehouse’s safety protocols. If necessary, hosting different training sessions focused on different aspects of the warehouse, such as machinery and equipment practices or fire and weather drills, may be helpful to ensure that you cover all safety-related protocols and information.
Mandating attendance at these safety training sessions can help you ensure that all warehouse employees are aware of these safety protocols, methods and practices and can respond appropriately in situations where their safety may be at risk. It can also help them feel more comfortable and safe in the workplace by giving them peace of mind that there’s a plan in place if challenges arise.
“11 Warehouse Safety Tips to Consider in the Workplace.” Indeed Career Guide, 2 Apr. 2022, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/warehouse-safety-tips.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
When you are out of work, or working at a job that you wish to change, finding a new career opportunity quickly may be a high priority. In order to find work in a competitive market, it’s important to know how to maximize your opportunities when searching for employment. Understanding effective job search practices can help you decrease the time to find a new opportunity. In this article, we provide 17 tips to help you find a job as soon as possible.
17 Tips for finding a job ASAP
When searching for a new career opportunity, these tips can help you find a job ASAP:
1. Treat it like work
If you are unemployed and feel the need to find work as quickly as possible, the best approach is to treat your job search like it is your full-time job. By committing the hours you would otherwise spend on a job to looking for new work, you provide yourself with significant time commitments for your job search. This allows you to give each potential application your full attention.
2. Set your goals
Having clearly defined goals for a job search can help make your efforts more effective. Goals may include timeline-based efforts or goals related to the type of job or compensation you are seeking. The more clearly defined your goals are, the more focused you can be during your search. This allows you to devote your time only to those jobs that are most likely to meet your needs so that you can find your next opportunity more quickly.
3. List your wants and needs
When classifying what you are seeking in an employer or position, it can be beneficial to separate those items which you absolutely need from those which you would like to have, but are not mandatory. This can help you better identify potential job opportunities to pursue, by ensuring you do not exclude a position for failing to meet a target that is only a desire and not a requirement. Keeping additional jobs eligible expands your opportunity and makes it more likely that you will find a job quickly.
4. Be flexible
If timeliness is your highest priority when searching for a new job, you may benefit from expanding your list of suitable options. By considering opportunities that may be outside of your previous work experience or your first choice for a new employment opportunity, you can significantly increase the potential employers available to you. This can be helpful when trying to find a job as soon as possible.
5. Assess your skills
When trying to find a job fast, using your time as efficiently as possible can play a significant factor in helping you achieve your goal. One way to focus your attention on the right job opportunities is to have a strong understanding of your skills and capabilities. This makes you better suited to identifying job opportunities that align with your abilities, in order to raise the likelihood that each resume you send out leads to advancements in the hiring process.
If you need to work immediately, working for a temp agency can be an excellent option. When temping, an agency finds placements for you that may be as short as one day or may extend for a period of months. Finding a temp job is an excellent way to earn income while searching for work. This allows you to continue a career search while providing you with paychecks until you find your next career opportunity.
7. Consider an internship to work opportunity
Beginning work for a company through an internship is an excellent way to find a long-term career opportunity. Both paid and unpaid internships may offer the opportunity to transition into full-time employment at the end of your term. When considering an internship possibility, research the company offering the position in order to determine how frequently their interns receive the opportunity to work for the company after their internship ends.
8. Research job listings
Examining job listings for positions similar to those you are seeking, particularly ones with corresponding locations or experience levels, is an excellent way to learn what employers are currently looking for in your chosen field. Note any skills or duties that appear across multiple job listings. This is a sign they are integral to the role and show that you should work to build them if needed so you can feature them prominently on your resume.
9. Update your resume
When browsing job listings, you may encounter jobs that fill quickly. In order to ensure you have the potential to apply for these short-lived opportunities, it’s important to keep your resume updated. By having an updated resume ready, you can quickly make a copy and adjust your resume as needed to match a job posting, enabling you to get your application sent in for consideration before the company fills the position.
One of the most effective ways to find new career opportunities is to leverage your existing professional and personal contacts. By directly asking those in a position to help you if they know of any opportunities, or if they would be willing to provide you with a recommendation when applying for positions, you can maximize the benefit that your contact network provides. This allows them to help you in any way they can and enables you to increase the speed of your job search process.
Finding employment can be a complicated task, which is why there are professionals who devote their entire careers to the process. Having a network connection working in human resources or hiring at a company can be an excellent opportunity. Working with a professional recruiter offers similar benefits to a broader range of potential work opportunities. A recruiter seeks to pair workers with job opportunities and can help you find open positions you qualify for in order to work as soon as possible.
12. Value long term fits
When seeking employment quickly, you may still have the ability to consider additional factors, such as the long-term suitability of the position. If your accelerated job search provides you with more than one potential employment opportunity, choosing the option with a better fit can help you avoid a similar job search in the future. This may even be the case when the more suitable long-term option provides fewer short-term benefits.
13. Remain calm during formal contact
When contacting a potential employer, it’s important to not allow any urgency in your search to come through in your communications. By remaining calm when sending a cover letter or email and speaking with a representative of a potential employer, you present a professional tone to your prospective employer. This can help to make you a more appealing candidate and find a job sooner.
14. Practice interviewing
A formal interview with a potential employer often plays a key role in determining who they hire for the position. The more comfortable you get participating in interviews, the more effectively you can compose your responses during a formal interview. Practicing your interview skills with a helper allows you to gain experience responding comfortably to questions. It’s often beneficial to research the most common interview questions for the type of job you apply to, in order to understand the questions you are most likely to face so that you can prepare effective responses.
Remaining at the forefront of a potential employer’s consideration is an excellent way to raise your chances of earning a position. Sending a follow-up immediately after an interview to thank your employer for the opportunity shows professionalism and provides them with another reminder of your interest. You may send additional follow-ups after several days, provided the period they suggested they would contact you has elapsed. Reaching out before they expect to make their decision can have a negative effect.
16. Embrace the potential for rejection
One of the most challenging emotional factors of a job search may be the potential rejection of an employer. Try to remember that many companies seek to fill just one position, so it’s often normal to be turned down by multiple employers before being hired. Understanding this can lower the stress.
17. Be positive
Another important consideration that corresponds with the potential for rejection when applying for new jobs is to maintain a positive attitude about yourself and your efforts. Finding a new job can be a challenging task, particularly in a competitive job market.
“17 Tips for Finding a Job Asap.” Indeed Career Guide, 29 July 2021, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-can-i-find-job-asap.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
Making better to-do lists can help you commit to completing tasks and increasing workplace productivity. In this article, we explain the importance of managing a to-do list and better ways of managing your to-do list.
Why is it important to effectively manage a to-do list?
Managing a to-do list can make it easier to complete time-sensitive tasks. Below are some key benefits of managing your to-do list:
A to-do list helps you remember. You can make it easier to remember everything you need to by keeping a detailed to-do list.
You can set priorities. After listing all your tasks, you can easily see what your priorities should be.
Your to-do list can help you coordinate similar tasks. For example, if you have to collect a document from your manager and deliver it to someone else, these tasks can be grouped together.
You can track your work progress. At the end of your day, you can look at your list and know exactly how much work you completed.
It helps relieve anxiety. Anxiety and stress can make it easier to forget priorities, which makes it especially important to stay organized and reduce as much stress as possible.
12 better ways of managing a to-do list
Everyone has their own work style, but many people benefit from organizing their tasks into a to-do list. Here are 12 effective ways to manage your to-do list.
1. Divide your to-do list into sections
To actually manage your to-do list, it helps to be mindful of how achievable the tasks you include are. Dividing the list into sections can help you focus your effort and identify what is possible in the timeframe of your day. Consider dividing your to-do list into three sections. First, write the events, calls and meetings you attend that day. In the second section, include things you hope will accomplish during meetings, and on the third list, include things that need to be done but don’t get a slot in your work calendar.
2. Use the “SUG” method
Having a clear idea of what your biggest priorities in the workplace are can help you keep your to-do list from becoming too long. The “SUG” method helps you create a manageable to-do list. Before composing your list, consider:
Seriousness: Take time to determine important tasks you need to complete in a day.
Urgency: Think about how long a task could take to complete.
Growth: Understand the effects that could occur if you wait too long to complete a task
3. Create different to-do lists for tasks, projects and goals
You can create the best list of things you have to do daily by separating your tasks, goals and projects. Writing a list of tasks may help to break down extensive projects, and you can delegate some tasks to others if it’s an informed decision.
A goal list is also important, as it enables you to test whether the things you are handling day-to-day are in line with the tasks you want to complete on time.
4. Share your to-do list publicly
External accountability works well for many people in their workplaces. If you perform best when your accomplishments are more public, it may help to create a to-do list that you can share with others. This method can be especially helpful to entrepreneurs, freelancers and others who work under no supervision.
Sending weekly updates to your friends or coworkers could help you improve your productivity at work. In addition, you may find it easier to achieve your goals if you can publicly manage a to-do list of your priorities.
5. Design your day
Instead of focusing on how you can manage time, take time to design your day. Build a structure that works for you and makes your focus and needs clear during a given time. This can even help you set appropriate boundaries in the workplace. If your schedule is clear to others, then they have an easier time understanding how and when to help you.
For example, organizing your tasks into quadrants may work well for you. Include your daily tasks in a to-do list and divide them into representative tasks, business operations, development projects and transactional tasks. When you’re making your list, identify the tasks that energize you and place them strategically to boost your productivity.
In addition to creating a list of what you need to accomplish, consider also listing what you have already completed. Making a list of what you’re done with can help you track measurable progress and move on to the next step. It can also boost your self-esteem over time by allowing you to see how productive you are at work.
7. Include things you love to do
When making a to-do list, consider adding some things you find exciting. If your to-do list is full of tedious tasks, be sure to include one or two things you genuinely enjoy doing that you can handle easily and fit into your workday.
8. Limit the tasks you plan to complete in a day
When you first start improving your to-do list, focus on completing three to five important tasks daily and delivering quality results. You can also adjust your to-do list to have only the tasks you plan to complete in that day. This can help keep you from stressing over too many tasks that may be difficult to handle once you get to know your maximum limit.
The more you complete your tasks for that day, the better you can understand how to manage your to-do list. This can also help you develop a more positive outlook that improves your workplace productivity.
When you start your day at work, assess whether you know what is on your to-do list by revising it. If you realize you have many tasks that day you may not complete, focus on your biggest priorities. Also, prepare yourself on how you can handle all the tasks on your list that day.
10. Create a list of weekly projects
There are many things on your list that you might want to complete by the end of the week. This is why it’s helpful to make a list of priorities to complete weekly. A master list can help you narrow down each task so that you are not losing focus by always having to consider your bigger, long-term goals. For example, you might accomplish tasks such as gaining business loans, contacting a client or starting a new account at work within a week’s time.
11. Keep time
Measuring time is a strategy to use when managing your to-do list. Try to determine the amount of time you may need to complete a task. For example, you may need to achieve the same results in a shorter period on some days if you want to accomplish all tasks on your to-do list for a certain week.
Keeping track of time can also help you know the tasks you can complete in a week. If you know roughly how long you need to accomplish a certain type of task, you can make it easier to organize your time to ensure you’re able to complete that task.
“12 Tips for Making Better to-Do Lists.” Indeed Career Guide, 9 Dec. 2021, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/managing-to-do-list.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
Your cover letter gives you an excellent chance to share your skills and how you can transfer these skills to a prospective job. Highlighting these transferable skills in your cover letter provides the employer with the opportunity to find out more about who you are and what you can contribute. Understanding what skills you possess and how they relate to the open position can give you an advantage when crafting your cover letter. In this article, we discuss 10 transferable skills you can include in your cover letter, with examples for each.
Here are 10 transferable skills you can include in your cover letter, with examples:
Communication
Customer service
Teamwork
Leadership
Problem-solving
Time management
Adaptability
Dependability
Technological
Work ethic
Communication
Communication skills like active listening and written communication are skills that are highly sought-after by employers. Being able to communicate effectively makes you a more favored choice for employers because these skills transfer to every industry. Whether you are required to speak with clients, customers, coworkers or management, having strong communication skills makes you easier to work with.
You can include your communication skills in your cover letter by highlighting previous jobs where you had to speak with many people daily. Writing an excellent cover letter also gives a clear representation of your written communication skills.
Example:“My previous job included speaking with clients on the phone and in-person to resolve conflicts with orders, so taking calls in your customer resolution support center will come naturally to me.”
Customer service skills include a variety of soft skills like active listening, empathy and problem-solving. Having a history of servicing customers and clients can show your new employer that you have had experience in customer service and can transfer those skills to your new position. When writing a cover letter for a customer service position or any position that will involve client communication, include a brief history of your best customer service experiences and how you might use them in your new job.
Example:“My previous three jobs involved customer service, and my most recent job required me to speak with over 100 clients daily. Your customer service position is very similar to my most recent job, and I can transfer my skills to this fast-paced position.”
Teamwork
Being able to work with other people is a strong skill that many employers value highly. Even in leadership and management roles, teamwork is critical to promote progress and complete tasks. When applying for a job that will require you to work as part of a team, consider describing an experience of when you worked with coworkers to complete a task to reach a common goal or deadline.
Example:“I’ve been a part of many teams in my professional career. In my most recent position, I was part of a team that completed daily and weekly projects. I organized the implementation of the designs and communicated with the rest of the team to ensure we always completed our tasks before our weekly deadline. Whether I am working on one task as part of a team or working together with others on the same task, working with others comes naturally to me.”
Leadership
Leadership skills are essential in any industry, whether or not you are the manager. This is more than management—it includes being able to manage your time and your actions when working with others. Effective leaders solve problems, communicate clearly and know how to make a decision when it is needed. Consider highlighting one or two of your past experiences in a leadership role. If the job you are applying for will be your first professional leadership position, you can include past experiences that show you have the qualities of a leader.
Example:“In my experience, I’ve found leading by example to be my best quality, but I’ve also led many projects where I organized a team and managed our time to complete all of the necessary tasks. I solved every conflict that surfaced by communicating with my team and developing an understanding of each person’s capabilities, work ethic and emotions. These experiences have made me the leader I am today.”
Having the ability to solve problems and resolve conflicts is both a leadership skill and a beneficial quality for any employee. When a manager can feel confident in your ability to manage yourself and solve problems without needing excessive supervision, they might view you as a valuable asset to their business. Being able to solve problems means fewer problems for the manager who is thinking about hiring you. Include the resolutions and results of past issues you’ve solved in your cover letter.
Example:“I’ve been able to manage any problem I’ve ever encountered at any job. Unless the issue required manager approval to decide on a specific solution, I have always been able to find the solution on my own without the need for disturbing other coworkers or managers.”
Time management
The ability to manage your time efficiently is a useful skill that management values highly. Besides being able to complete the necessary tasks by a deadline or the end of the workday, time management skills commonly mean you can complete tasks faster than usual. Successful time management also shows you have an understanding of the teams and companies you’ve worked for. Consider using your cover letter to provide an instance where you effectively managed the time of yourself or others to complete the necessary tasks before a deadline.
Example:“Time management has been extremely important to me with any position I’ve had. Every job has consisted of meeting deadlines and completing specific tasks before the end of a day or week, and I had always made sure to understand the dynamics of the task and the team to complete my duties before they needed to be done.”
Adaptability skills are critical in fast-paced workplaces that are prone to many changes. When a change or shift happens within a company or project, an adaptable employee will adjust their tasks and modify goals for their benefit and the benefit of the company. Being able to learn new skills quickly and efficiently is advantageous to the company and the job applicant. Consider explaining previous jobs that required you to learn a new process or adjust your daily routine and how you adapted quickly and positively.
Example:“I enjoy working in fast-paced environments and can adapt to new processes by quickly learning new skills. My previous job required process adjustments frequently, and that has led me always to be ready for changes that happen.”
Dependability
Being dependable is extremely important to employers because they know they can rely on you. When you say you are going to do something, people trust you to do it. When you agree on completing a task, a manager can depend on you to complete it with quality.
Example:“Every job I’ve had included management depending on me to complete my tasks with quality. I have many times been trusted with more demanding and sometimes delicate tasks because I could be relied on to accomplish them.
Technological
Technology continues to increase in the workplace of most industries, and having a technical aptitude can put your future employer at ease when thinking about hiring you. For jobs that require you to use technology, being able to use your general technical knowledge to learn new skills and machinery can make you a more qualified candidate for a job. Briefly explain the technology you understand that directly relates to your potential position as well as how well you can adapt to new technology and required skills.
Example:“I have a strong technical aptitude and have adapted to new technology and processes in every job I’ve had. I can work in a variety of computer programs, understand point-of-sale systems and am quick to adapt to new technology when needed.”
Work ethic
Work ethic is a skill and a value that employers view highly. Your ability to follow through on your duties helps you maintain positive relationships with your coworkers and management. Briefly explaining your strong work ethic in your cover letter can give you an advantage when applying for a job.
Example:“I’m dedicated to the work I do wherever I work and whatever my responsibilities are. I’m keen on following through with every task or duty I’m assigned and keep a positive outlook to benefit the company and inspire other employees.”
“10 Skills for Cover Letters.” Indeed Career Guide, 26 May 2021, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/cover-letter-skills.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
When looking for a job, understanding factors such as company values, work environment and compensation can help you find a job that suits both your personality and your career goals. In this article, we describe 13 things to consider when looking for a job.
Things to look for in a job
To determine which position is best for you, consider these 13 things to look for in a job.
1. Company history
While no one can predict the future, understanding a company’s history can give you a glimpse into its stability, values and culture. Find out as much as you can about a potential employer from press releases, websites and social media accounts.
How long has the company been in business?
Is the company expanding or downsizing?
Has the company had any major advancements/are they expanding into new industries?
How does your potential employer compare to other companies in their industry?
How often has the company laid off employees?
Has the company been in the news for legal or financial troubles?
The relative importance of each of these questions will depend on your situation. For example, if you have a family and job security is important to you, look for companies that are expanding, have lots of good press and are leaders in their industry.
Work doesn’t feel like work when your career goals are aligned with the goals of your employer. When you research a potential employer, compare your values with an employer’s mission statement, core values and business model. Many companies also support charitable organizations or partner with community groups. If you want your work to help the world at large, this may be a factor to consider when looking for a job.
When considering the length of your workday, you must think about both your working hours and your commute time. Be realistic about how much time you are willing to spend going back and forth to work every day. If your commute requires time stuck in rush-hour traffic, consider how that will affect your working hours and stress level. If a job requires an especially long commute, consider how your time on the road will affect your non-work life, including kids’ activities, dating, family time and fitness activities.
The cost of your commute should be a factor when comparing salaries from different companies. Fuel and parking costs can eat away at your take-home pay.
4. Working hours
As working hours can vary widely from company to company, you must know how a job’s work hours will fit into your life. Find out how many work hours are expected in a “normal” week and how extra work time is handled. You should also find out if holiday or weekend work is required and if you must be “on-call” when away from work.
5. Salary
Your compensation package should be able to meet your basic needs and help you plan for the future. As you look for a job, be sure to review your budget and understand how much you need to earn to pay your bills. Research the salary range for jobs you are considering so that you can better negotiate a starting salary.
When comparing several companies, it is important to compare benefits packages. Health insurance is an important benefit for everyone, but not every company provides health insurance or provides it at a reasonable rate. A job that offers a retirement saving plan can help you plan for the future while you work. You should also look at how each company handles vacation time and sick days.
If you have to move to your new job, find out if the company covers relocation costs. Don’t ignore smaller perks such as employee discounts on company merchandise and discounted wellness memberships.
To be successful in a job, you need to find a position that aligns with your strengths. If you are most comfortable in a supportive role, it may not be wise to step into a job where you are responsible for important decisions. Likewise, your role as part of a team may be very different than a job that requires you to work solo. Compare these job factors with your personality and optimum work-environment to find the best fit for you.
8. Technology
In many jobs, you will be required to use technological tools such as computers, smartphones, and tablets. Before accepting a job offer, find out which tech the company provides and which you must supply yourself. You should also have a solid understanding of the software, hardware, and operating systems you will be expected to use on the job.
9. Opportunities for growth
Jobs that provide growth opportunities are especially important in the early years of your career. Earlier in your career, you may work in roles that offer an entry-level pay rate in exchange for the opportunity to gain experience and earn a full-time position.
If you are further along in your career, look for opportunities to develop new skills in your job. Many companies offer on-site training or pay for classes as part of your professional development. Look for a job that teaches you transferable skills, helps you move into a senior position or helps you move toward larger career goals.
10. Recognition and appraisal
Everyone appreciates praise and recognition for a job well done. When looking for a job, find out how potential employers encourage growth and reward hard work. Common performance incentives include bonuses, yearly trips, and awards.
11. Work-Life balance
Achieving work-life balance is a critical part of your overall health and well-being. Jobs that are very demanding for a short time may be exciting and highly rewarding, but you may find it helpful to balance periods of demanding hours with time off. Ask your potential employer about their policies on vacation, sick days, and work-from-home flexibility.
Finding a balance between work and the rest of your life becomes especially important if you are a working parent. Ask about the company’s policies on sick days (for both you and your children) and leaving work early for special events.
12. Work environment
Because you will be spending a lot of time at work, make sure that the work environment is a good fit for you. Consider whether you prefer working in a small company or a large corporation. Check out the workspaces and try to get a feel for the place. A workspace that excites you can increase your job satisfaction and overall happiness.
When you visit for an interview, watch employees as they work to see if employees look happy and the workplace seems pleasant. Be sure to check out how employees are dressed and if you are unsure, ask about the company dress code.
13. Colleagues
Your future colleagues are going to be a huge part of your life, so try to get to know as many as possible before accepting a job offer. Pay attention to how coworkers interact with each other and ask as many questions as possible about the working environment. Take note of management as they work with junior staff. A friend or family member already employed by the company can provide useful information regarding the work atmosphere, stress level, and pace.
“13 Things to Consider When Looking for a Job.” Indeed Career Guide, 22 Feb. 2021, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-to-look-for-in-a-job.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
Job fairs are an effective means for prospecting jobs, networking with other professionals in your industry and actively interviewing for open positions within organizations that attend these types of events. If you attend a career fair, there are several things you may bring with you to increase your chances of being noticed by and making a lasting impression on potential employers. For instance, resumes and business cards are among some of these items that you may come prepared with if a recruiter requests more information about you.
What to bring with you to a job fair
When taking part in a job fair, there are several items that you may consider bringing with you to help you present yourself to recruiters and hiring managers. The following list outlines a few things that you may want to take with you to your career fair so you can provide required documents and information if a hiring manager or prospective recruiter requests it:
Extra copies of your resume
Targeted resumes
Business cards
Your professional portfolio
Notepad or paper and pens
An extra change of clothes
Application preparation materials
Your elevator speech
Extra copies of your resume
When you attend the career fair, one of the most important items you should have with you is your resume. This can be a general resume that outlines your work experience, educational background and your skills. A general resume will serve as a way for you to highlight your overall experience and skills, and you may leave a more generalized resume with a company of interest, especially if your target position is not an open job. This way, you can express your interest in the company and offer your information for future contact if your ideal role opens up.
While it is important to bring extra copies of your resume, bringing copies of targeted resumes can increase your chances of getting noticed by the organization you are interested in applying to. Targeted resumes will highlight only your work and educational history, skills and experience relevant to a specific role. Consider having a few of these targeted resumes, so you may provide a copy if you meet with a recruiter for the position you want.
Business cards
If you have dedicated business cards, you may consider bringing them to the job fair. Your cards should have your full name, phone number and email address or other contact information, and you can even include a job title, a brief mission statement or another qualifying description on your business card.
As you move through the career fair, you can distribute your business card to companies of interest and companies you are interested in but have no open positions that fit your qualifications. You can explain the job role you are looking for and ask to keep in contact if something should open. The prospective employer will then have your contact information should a job open up.
Your professional portfolio
If you have a professional portfolio, consider bringing it with you. Portfolios are especially effective and useful to have if you work in an industry where you create a variety of visual products, as you can show prospective recruiters and hiring managers how you have succeeded in your past roles. Your portfolio can highlight your hard and soft skills in completing projects. You may also consider keeping only pieces of professional evidence in your portfolio relevant to the career roles you are seeking.
Notepad or paper and pens
Think about bringing a notepad or small notebook and a few extra pens with you to your job fair. When attending interviews within the career fair, you may consider taking quick notes after each session to help you remember who you spoke with, what company they were from and highlights from the interview such as salary information, job requirements and contact information for the hiring managers you met or can follow up with.
An extra change of clothes
If you are local to the career fair you are attending, you may not need to be concerned over bringing extra business attire. However, if you are traveling a long distance to the event, consider bringing one extra change of business clothing with you. It could be helpful if you spill coffee on your clean and pressed white shirt or in case of a tear or troublesome zipper. Preparing your attire ahead of time can allow you to take precautions in case something soils your formal clothing.
Application preparation materials
You may have researched prospective job positions you are interested in interviewing for, but consider preparing yourself for job roles that might come up that you might want to apply for. Have any information ready that you might need when filling out a job application.
For instance, keep a list of references and their contact information, and names, phone numbers and other contact information for past employers. Likewise, you may have references included in your resume, and you can use that information as needed if you fill out applications during the career fair.
Your elevator speech
An elevator speech, or elevator pitch, is a quick and direct way to introduce yourself, your career objective and how you can meet the requirements for the job. Because career fairs tend to be large events with many attendant businesses, recruiters and prospective employers, practicing your pitch can allow you to be fully prepared for what you will say when you sit down to speak with prospective employers. Practice how you will introduce yourself and make a lasting impression so you can make your pitch in under 60 seconds.
“8 Things to Bring to a Job Fair.” Indeed Career Guide, 3 Dec. 2021, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/things-to-bring-to-a-job-fair.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
Interview anxiety is nervousness or panic that you may feel due to an approaching interview. Symptoms may be physical, such as an increased heart rate, or mental, like racing thoughts. Interview anxiety can exist by itself or be related to generalized anxiety or social anxiety disorder.
Some people may experience anticipatory anxiety, which appears in the days leading up to the interview marked by worries about what will happen. Others may experience more anxiety on the day of the interview and in the interview itself. Either way, interview anxiety can be managed with helpful tools and research-based strategies.
How to get over interview anxiety
Here are 12 ways to overcome your interview anxiety:
Prepare for your interview thoroughly
Learn as much as you can about the company you are interviewing with. Find their mission and vision and note what you like about them. Prepare several questions to ask your interviewer about the company to demonstrate your interest. Feeling knowledgeable can help alleviate some of your worries.
Consider doing a trial run by driving to the office or interview location in advance to get an idea of how long the trip will take. On the day of the interview, allow yourself extra time for any unforeseen delays.
Pack everything you will need ahead of time. Consider bringing the following items to an interview:
Office address and directions
At least five copies of your cover letter, resume and list of references
Consider having a mock interview with a friend or at a career center at your university. Practicing the interview process helps you feel more confident and can show you what to expect at the real interview.
Find a quiet place to sit and visualize your upcoming interview. Imagine yourself at ease and confident. Go through the interview in your mind, picturing yourself answering questions, carrying yourself well and feeling comfortable throughout the process. These visualization exercises can help you recognize you are capable of succeeding, even in a stressful environment.
Eliminate variables
Having fewer decisions to make on interview day can help you feel less rushed and less anxious. Choose your outfit and try it on ahead of time. Plan and prep your pre-interview meal or snack. Fill up your gas tank the day before if driving to the interview.
Eat well and exercise
In the days leading up to your interview, try to take care of yourself physically so that you do not have to worry about canceling your interview due to illness. Several hours before your interview, consider going for a run, a walk or a bike ride to help release nervous energy. Try to avoid caffeine and other triggers just before your interview. Instead, consider drinking water or green tea to help you relax.
Lower your stress levels
Consider the following methods for reducing stress and anxiety:
Talk to a friend. You can call a friend before your interview for a distraction and encouragement.
Write down your thoughts. Writing down your thoughts can help you process your emotions and may even provide healing benefits. Consider keeping a journal the week leading up to your interview.
Listen to music. Music may improve your body’s response to stress. While you are getting ready and on your commute to the interview, consider playing music that energizes you to help you feel ready for success.
Laugh. Laughing can help combat anxiety. Listen to a funny podcast or watch your favorite comedian before your interview to help take some of the pressure off of yourself.
Relax your body. Just before the interview begins, relax your shoulders and unclench your jaw to release muscle tension.
Increase your confidence
Before leaving your house, or in the parking lot of the office if it’s private, consider assuming the Superman pose for a couple of minutes: hands on your hips, feet apart, standing tall. This can help you feel powerful and in control.
Take deep breaths
Anxiety causes you to breathe shallowly, increasing the amount of carbon dioxide in your body, which can further increase anxiety levels. Taking deep breaths—breathing in for a count of four, holding for a count of two, then exhaling for a count of four—can help reduce this build-up of carbon dioxide.
When waiting for your interview in the lobby or waiting room, take deep breaths. Try to avoid looking at your phone. To keep your hands busy and distract your mind, you can write notes or draw on your notepad.
Pay attention
Anxiety often makes you focused on yourself and your own thoughts. Combat this internal focus by making it a point to engage with others. Ask the receptionist their name or make small talk with your interviewer when walking to their office. Repeat the names of those you meet. These small tasks will help your thoughts shift from internal to external.
Ask questions
Anxiety can often be the result of feeling powerless. You can feel empowered by asking the interviewer questions. Remember that a job interview is also a chance for you to decide if a company is right for you. Ask about any policies that are important to you, such as service days, environmental impact initiatives and expectations for weekend and overtime work.
Think before responding
Before responding to questions, take a breath and use a few seconds to organize your thoughts. You can give yourself a little time by saying, “Let me think about that for a second” or “I want to think of a specific example for you.”
Accept the outcome
Hiring decisions are based on many different factors. No matter what decision is made, be proud of yourself for going through the interview despite your anxiety. Make note of what you may be able to improve upon in the future, but avoid overthinking your performance. Every interview is valuable because it is an opportunity to improve your skills.
“12 Tips for How to Get over Interview Anxiety.” Indeed Career Guide, 11 Mar. 2021, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/anxiety-interview.
This article is from Indeed. See their article at the bottom.
Thinking positively at work has many mental and physical benefits. An optimistic mindset can improve your mood, elevate your confidence and increase your effectiveness in the workplace. When you maintain a positive mindset at work, you may find your environment and day-to-day tasks more enjoyable. By maintaining a positive outlook, you can focus on areas of improvement and future goals rather than the challenges you’re facing. Positivity also tends to influence others, so you may also make your coworkers happier at work as well.
Here are several tips to follow to think more positively at work:
1. Appreciate the small successes
One of the easiest ways to develop positive thinking at work is to find several small achievements to celebrate each day. Noting successes could help you feel optimistic and more motivated. For example, if you have a major project to finish, focus on the last few tasks you accomplished and be proud that you successfully completed them.
2. Take time to cultivate positive thoughts
Consider taking experiences you may not normally enjoy and turn them into something productive and positive. For example, you can use time spent in traffic as an opportunity to prepare for the upcoming workday, such as listening to recorded notes of your last meeting or a motivational speaker. You may even begin to look forward to this time each day, as you know you will spend it educating yourself.
3. Make every situation a lesson learned
When you finish a task or project, take a few minutes to think about what went well and what you would like to change next time. Think about the challenges you faced and plan ways to work through them to make your next project more successful. For example, if you just finished managing a project, you can think of three different strategies for future projects so you have options as you work toward your goals.
Making an effort to be around other positive people can help you think better about yourself and your environment. You could do this by having lunch with coworkers who tend to be optimistic comments. During your time with them, you might bring up challenging projects and listen to their opinion on them. They may present you with a new way of approaching the situation that you had not considered before.
5. Use positive language
A simple way to improve your positivity is to employ positive words to use in your workplace conversations. Examples of these words include “accomplish,” “believe,” “encouraging,” “energized,” “generous,” “kind,” “optimistic,” “progress” and “rewarding.” Using these and other words with good connotations can help you create a positive environment.
When speaking at a meeting, you could say, “I believe we can accomplish this project successfully” or “I am encouraged by the progress we are making.” This can make you and your team feel more optimistic about an unfinished project or impending deadline.
Take time during your day to reflect on the people, events and accomplishments you’re thankful for. In a journal or planner, write down five things you are grateful for each day. You might find that you had a great workout at the gym that morning, gave a successful presentation at work or enjoyed having lunch with a colleague. Recognizing the positive effect of these activities can be a great way to end your day.
Another simple way to practice gratitude is by saying thank you during the day. You can make it a goal to say this to three people while at work. This could include thanking your secretary for planning a meeting, expressing gratitude to your coworker for following up with a client or thanking your supervisor for their feedback about your performance. Showing gratitude for what others do for you can have a positive influence on others in the workplace.
7. Write down three positive aspects of each situation
One way to stay positive at work is to find three positive aspects of a challenging situation. This helps focus and makes a difficult situation more manageable. For example, if you have a time-consuming project, write down three parts of the project you enjoy. You might find that you enjoy the team you are working with or you learned a new skill. Seeing the achievements within your challenges can help you maintain a positive attitude.
“7 Tips for Thinking Positively at Work.” Indeed Career Guide, 20 Dec. 2021, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/thinking-positively-at-work.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
Improving your career can help you achieve success and maximize your potential for growth in the future. It’s important to actively engage with your industry and to keep learning new skills so you can meet your long-term goals with confidence and pride. Improving your career can also help you earn more money, gain visibility and notoriety within your industry and financially prepare for retirement.
1. Set goals regularly
To improve your career, set small, short-term goals regularly so you can stay focused on your professional growth. It’s important to set goals that are achievable in the short-term future because it takes time to develop the skills and experience necessary for success. Use a planner, notebook or virtual calendar to track your progress and document your experiences.
Here are a few examples of professional goals to consider as you establish your own:
Completing a large project
Improving specific technical skills
Earning a certain award or recognition
Being promoted to a certain position
Increasing your knowledge about a certain topic
Focusing on building or improving professional relationships
As you gain experience in your industry, ask for feedback from both managers and co-workers so you can understand your strengths and focus on what needs to be improved. Performance reviews can be a great opportunity to start a professional dialogue with your manager and ask direct questions about how to develop your career. You may also benefit from asking follow-up questions after meetings and presentations to discover what you did well and how you can improve in the future.
Here are a few example questions you can ask to gain valuable feedback on your performance:
Is there room for growth within our department?
What are my strengths?
How can I improve my skills even further to help our department succeed?
Can you give me an example of a task I performed well?
Do you have any suggestions for improving my productivity rate?
What advice would you give me to help me improve my communication?
How can I better prepare for upcoming projects?
3. Talk to your network
Networking, or forming relationships and exchanging information with other individuals who share a common interest or work in your industry, comes with many professional benefits. Talk to your network often and utilize any resources and connections available to you. This can help you stay actively engaged with your industry, discover job opportunities and maintain long-term professional connections.
There are several ways you can start networking, including by:
Many companies and organizations have a variety of educational resources and learning opportunities available for employees to learn and expand their skill sets. For example, your employer may provide management training programs to advance your career within the company.
5. Challenge yourself
Improving your career requires time, commitment and motivation. Challenge yourself often by setting short-term goals, conducting exploratory research and learning new skills. Think about pushing yourself out of your comfort zone frequently to explore skills and ideas beyond your area of expertise. For example, if you don’t have public speaking experience, you could sign up for a workshop to practice those skills so you can add them to your resume and use them in the future.
To improve your career, read about your industry often to stay up-to-date on competitors, new products and services and innovative ideas for the future. Reference trade papers, magazines, news websites and blogs to find relevant information that pertains to your industry. Being able to discuss recent trends and findings at work can build your authority and encourage coworkers to ask you for help, giving you the chance to develop leadership skills and propel your career forward with new challenges.
7. Be curious about your industry
Be curious about your industry and the professional opportunities it has to offer as this can help you explore alternative job options and expand your network of professional connections. Communicate with your coworkers and network often so you find out about conferences, workshops and industry-related events that can propel your career forward.
8. Write often
As you grow and develop in your professional life, it can be beneficial to write often about your activities, thoughts and ideas for the future. Documenting your accomplishments over time can help you gain confidence in your abilities and provide opportunities to reflect on past experiences. Improving your career can take time, so it’s important to recognize your strengths and express gratitude for all that you’ve accomplished.
9. Attend workshops and training programs
Attend workshops, training programs and community events related to your industry to keep learning, growing and engaging with new resources and information regularly. To learn about different jobs within your industry, consider observing a professional with experience or searching for a mentor to provide career advice and answer any questions you may have.
10. Get organized
To keep track of your goals, accomplishments and daily activities, get organized by archiving your past work, creating a regular schedule and planning for the upcoming steps in your professional career.
There are many different organizational methods and techniques, including the following:
Creating an online portfolio of work
Developing a document filing system
Digitizing your files for future reference
Creating to-do lists
Using labels to organize documents
Sorting through professional emails
Following a regular schedule
“10 Tips to Improve Your Career Development.” Indeed Career Guide, 18 Mar. 2021, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/improving-career.
This article is from Indeed. View their article at the bottom.
Several methods can help you avoid procrastination and stay motivated. In this article, we share 12 tips to help you stop procrastinating at work plus ways to identify procrastination.
Tips to stop procrastinating at work
Consider these tips to stop procrastinating at work so you can deliver quality assignments on time:
1. Visualize your goals
Picture yourself completing the tasks on your list. Visualizing the positive and accomplished feeling of meeting your goals and finishing projects can help encourage you to complete them.
Think about the goals you want to meet and the steps to get there. These goals can be advancing in your career or earning a raise. Imagine yourself meeting these goals as you push yourself to finish projects and stay on task.
2. Focus on the end product
While working on your tasks, you may feel stuck as you attempt to make every segment seem perfect. To keep yourself positive and on task, focus solely on finishing rather than complete perfection.
Give yourself a break once you’ve finished so you can return to the project feeling refreshed before making any changes. Your editing and proofreading stage is where you can search for areas that need tweaking to boost the project’s quality.
3. Break down larger projects into smaller tasks
Larger goals can seem less intimidating if you break them into smaller tasks. For example, if you have a 50-slide presentation due and are unsure of where to begin, make a to-do list of smaller tasks and set a deadline for each one. Your first task should be the simplest to make it easier to get started, like researching other presentations for inspiration.
4. Use the two-minute method or Pomodoro technique
Because larger tasks can be easier to finish if you complete them in smaller increments, you might want to try a couple of techniques to keep you motivated. The two-minute method uses the time increment of two minutes to determine how much further you want to pursue a project. For example, if you have a 30-page proposal to write, set a timer for two minutes. By the time the alarm sounds, you may feel so engaged in your project that you’ll want to work on it longer.
Meanwhile, the Pomodoro technique values the use of regular breaks to help your brain focus more effectively. Using a timer, work for 25 minutes, then take a five-minute break. After four intervals of working, take a 15-minute break.
You’re often more likely to finish tasks if you have written a to-do list. This helps you hold yourself accountable for completing them and reminds you of what needs to be done. Write each task, then sort through them based on their priority level, such as listing ones with upcoming deadlines near the top. This makes it easier to input these items into a schedule.
6. Use a schedule to set deadlines
Inserting your to-do list items into your schedule makes your tasks more manageable and helps you set deadlines. You can either use an online calendar, project management software or a planner. Write down due dates and block off time to work on certain projects each day.
7. Complete challenging tasks when you’re most productive
Many people feel most productive and focused during certain time periods throughout the day. For instance, you may get a boost of energy to finish tasks early in the morning but be less motivated in the afternoon. Plan to complete challenging tasks during your productive moments and simpler tasks like responding to emails when you’re less productive.
8. Remove any distractions
When certain items like your phone are on your desk, it can be easy to pick them up and distract yourself from work. Put your phone away if you don’t need it and remove any clutter. You can also download apps on your phone or adjust its notification settings to block any features that encourage procrastination.
If the environment around you feels distracting, try to find ways to limit them. For example, if employees regularly come to your desk to mingle, let them know when you’re planning to focus on other tasks so they can talk with you when you’re not busy. If you work from home, limit distractions from others by setting boundaries of certain hours you’re able to more freely chat.
9. Work in a comfortable environment
You may feel more productive if you’re working in an environment where you feel comfortable. You can improve your office environment by placing more plants at your desk, bringing in additional lighting or decorating for a more positive and at-home feel. If you work remotely, you can dedicate a certain space just for work to better separate your home life throughout the work day.
10. Maintain a healthy lifestyle
You can feel more focused and driven at work if you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Taking care of your mind and body allows you to build more energy and feel engaged. Consider the following tips:
Eat healthy meals: Nutritious meals and snacks along with plenty of water throughout the day can keep your body feeling energized and ready to complete challenging tasks.
Practice a healthy work-life balance: If a majority of your time is spent on work, your brain may feel tired and lose its ability to focus. Spend your weekends or evenings on your personal interests. Spend time with friends, engage in your hobbies or just relax by sleeping or watching television. This gives your brain a break and makes it feel more focused after some time away from work.
Exercise regularly: Working out can build endorphins that increase your motivation. Exercise gets your heart pumping and can increase your brain’s hippocampus, which may boost your memory and learning skills.
Get enough sleep: It’s best to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night to give your brain plenty of rest. You may feel more energetic after a great night’s sleep, allowing your brain to focus more easily on tasks.
11. Reward yourself
Promising yourself a reward when you’ve finished challenging tasks can help motivate you to complete them. Tell yourself something like, “When I’m finished with this report, I’ll buy ice cream and watch my favorite movie.” This gives you something to look forward to and pushes you to complete it.
12. Remember your self-worth
It can be challenging to start on a project due to a lack of confidence or fear you won’t do a good job. Before beginning your task, take a moment to remember your self-worth and positive qualities. Think of past positive feedback to boost your confidence. Even if your project’s end result isn’t what you expect, you’re still a valuable asset to your team.
When a project seems particularly difficult, give yourself a pep talk by saying something like, “You’re a very talented employee and can accomplish these tasks just like you’ve conquered many others in the past.” This helps boost your self-esteem and puts you in a positive mindset.
“12 Tips to Stop Procrastinating at Work.” Indeed Career Guide, 12 Jan. 2022, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/stop-procrastinating.