Email Me...Maybe?

Sometimes it’s the little details in life that make us stand out from the crowd.  Maybe it’s a new outfit or shoes that get noticed or the positive way we face challenging situations.  Other times, it’s the small details that can land us in the most trouble. 

Between our two office locations, we see hundreds of new applicants walk through our doors on a monthly basis.  There are those that grab our attention because of their determination to land a job (and the mindset to do whatever it takes to make that happen) and there are those that we remember for their outgoing personalities and a host of various other traits.

We always want our Flexible candidates to put their best foot forward when applying for jobs and interviewing with potential employers and this starts with your experience and qualifications and extends to your appearance, presentation, and RESUME.  More often than not, candidates know the importance of the application and the resume.  They take their time to make certain that everything is as it should be and represents the best version of themselves.  That is, until they reach the dreaded email line and this is so often where things fall apart. 

Most candidates will use their personal email to communicate with a new potential employer and this, sometimes, opens the door to trouble.  It’s where we will find things such as “NaughtyPrincess222@” or “BigBadMike4@”.  While those types of email addresses may be fine for your personal circle, an employer may find them an interesting choice for contact. 

The solution is simple.  Establish an email account for job search purposes that, like your resume, will put your best foot forward.  It should be something such as “ssmith@” or “bobjones13@”.  When choosing, just think from a professional standpoint and imagine something that an employer might assign to you for work purposes.

There are lots of things on a resume that we hope will grab a hiring manager’s attention, but your email address is certainly not among them.  Keep is simple and professional and then don’t forget to check it often and respond in an appropriate amount of time! 

Don't Forget to Call

Not only is today Friday, but the temperatures have dropped and it’s beautiful outdoors!  It may not be fall quite yet, but this is certainly a sweet “sneak-peek” at what’s to come!

Our offices have been extremely busy over the last few weeks as you well know if you have been in to see us.  We appreciate everyone’s patience and ask that you bear with us as we work to serve you. 

I wanted to touch on a subject that has come across my desk a couple of times in recent days.  In the 10 years we have been in business, we have taken applications from more than 20,000 individuals.  We have our busy times and our slow times, but there are always so many active applicants to keep track of and remember when filling orders. 

During the initial interview, we ask all applicants to check-in with us on a regular basis.  While this may seem like a hassle, it truly is important.  It keeps your name fresh and in front of our recruiters.  It reminds us that you’re dedicated to finding employment and that you will probably show that same dedication when you go to work for our client.  So please, pick up the phone once a week and contact our office.  It could make all the difference in your future!

I also want to remind everyone that we post our new jobs on Facebook first and then they are listed on the jobs tab of our website.  If you’re wanting to know about new opportunities FIRST, you must like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FlexibleStaffing. 

As always, don’t hesitate to contact us with questions.  Enjoy your weekend and the gorgeous weather!

The Key to Success? It May Be Easier Than You Think

In life, your attitude can be a game changer and the job market is certainly no exception to this rule.  The determination of the glass being half-full or half-empty can have great impact on where your career will go and how quickly it will get there.

In my line of work, we see numerous job seekers each day and I can tell you that their attitude plays a huge role in where and IF we place them with a client.  We have those that complain about the amount of paperwork required during the application process.  Once that’s complete, they complain about needing to call and check-in with us on a regular basis.  Our recruiters quickly realize how difficult these individuals can be to work with and they hesitate to send them to our clients. 

On the other hand, there are those that are a delight to have in the office. They are willing to work any job to get their foot in the door, they are anxious to do what’s necessary to be placed in a job and, most importantly, they are polite and courteous to everyone in our office from the recruiters to fellow applicants.  It’s easy to see why these individuals would be a good employee, as well as the value they could add to a business.  Many of them will be placed in a job almost immediately. 

Life isn’t easy and it’s definitely not all roses, but sometimes you just have to smile and make the most of it.  That doesn’t mean you won’t have bad days, it just means that you’ll handle them with a positive attitude and the determination that things will get better. 

People are drawn to those with this frame of mind and are anxious to make them part of their organization.  While education and experience are vital to getting an interview, your attitude will play a huge role in actually landing the job.  So our advice of the day is this:  Leave your problems at the door.  Put a smile on your face and allow only positive words to leave your mouth.  I promise there will be huge changes in your life if only you can make this happen on a daily basis.

Flexible? What's That?!!?

               As I go out and visit with clients and applicants, I am finding that many people have some confusion about the services offered here at Flexible Staffing.  Most assume we are a “temp agency”, but there really is so much more than that!

                Our direct hire division has grown significantly over the past year and continues to do so now.  These are professional placements that include everything from comptrollers and accountants to managers and engineers.  The positions are typically salaried and require a specific degree, as well as a substantial amount of experience.  When an offer of employment is made to these candidates, they go directly on the payroll of the client.

                We also offer temp-to-hire services which are full-time, permanent positions.  These employees will be on Flexible Staffing’s payroll for the first 520 hours of employment and then roll directly over to the client.  This is a great way for both the employer and the employee to test the waters and see if it’s a good fit for all involved.  Most generally, all goes well and the employee transfers over after approximately 90 working days.

                We do, of course, offer temporary employment as well.  These positions can range to factory or warehouse work to office/clerical jobs.  The jobs can last anywhere from one day to many months and, of course, vary in hours and pay.  Even though they are labeled as temporary, some will eventually turn into full-time, permanent work if the employee puts his/her best foot forward while working.

                The best way to stay informed of new available jobs is to Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/flexiblestaffing.  The jobs will be posted on our website, but almost always hit Facebook first. 

                If you have not done so yet, I strongly encourage you to stop by our Warrensburg or Chillicothe location to complete an application.  You can begin that process on our website at www.flexible-staffing.com and then finish the paperwork with our staff.  Whatever type of job you need, our recruiters will be happy to help in the search! 

Written Words

You’ve just aced a huge interview for your dream job…now what?  Some applicants will sit back and wait for the phone to ring, but there is one simple little step that could make you stand out from the mass of job seekers.  A handwritten thank-you note is the easiest way to keep the hiring manager thinking about you as he/she makes their decision.

            Please note that I did not say email, voicemail, or typed letter.  It is critical that you take the time to purchase a box of blank thank-you notes on which you can pen a short message of gratitude.  In a world where email has become the norm, some people panic at the thought of picking up a pen and putting their thoughts on paper, but the payoff is most certainly worth the effort.

            While the message can and should be simple, the presentation needs to be exact.  The note will be yet another reflection on your skills, and we want it to add-to rather than take-away- from your chances of landing the job.  Therefore, proper grammar and correct punctuation are essential.  In other words, if you’re going to do it, do it right!

            And about the message, what should it say?  THANK YOU.  This is not a letter, but rather 3-4 sentences of gratitude.  It should thank the interviewer for their time, perhaps state that you enjoyed learning more about the company, and close with a line that you look forward to hearing from them in the near future.  Your original cover letter and resume should have sold them on your qualifications and the interview was the time to explain why you want to work for their company.  Those ships have sailed.  Now, it’s just a simple, direct thank you.

            While there is never a guarantee of hire, taking the time to write a thank you will most certainly make the interviewer think about you again and sometimes that’s exactly what you need.  If nothing else, it expresses your continued interest in the position and your dedication to making a strong impression.  For some interviewers, it’s enough to seal the deal and, after all, that’s what it’s all about!

Do Your Homework!

Here is the question: “Why do you want this job?’  It’s a common interview question used by employers across all industries and it sounds as though it should be simple enough to answer; however, like so many others, your response can quickly deflate your chances of landing the job.

When presented with this opportunity during the interview, you should see it as your (brief) opportunity to sell yourself.  It’s a great chance to talk about why your skills are an ideal match for the needs of the company and, assuming you have done your homework, you should also mention what you love about the organization and how you can help them to reach continued success. 

The best advice I can offer is to go into the interview prepared with an answer.  The worst response would be, “I just need a job.”  This does not tell the hiring manager why he/she should offer THIS job to YOU.  Employers want those who are excited about their company and the potential it holds, not someone who is simply there for a paycheck. 

Another important question generally comes during the final portion of the process: “Do you have any questions?”  Please do not allow your answer to be “no”.  Instead, go into the interview with at least three to four questions in mind.  A portion of them may come up earlier in the interview so it is important to plan for that.  Acceptable examples might include queries about the workplace culture or atmosphere, dress code, or where they see the company in five years.  I’ve always loved the idea of asking the interviewer THEIR favorite part of working for the company.  This is often a great way to learn more about what it might truly be like to work for this employer. 

While preparation is your greatest chance at success during the interview process, there are, of course, those crazy, off-the-wall questions that will come up.  I have heard of interviewers asking such things as: “What’s your favorite cereal and why?” and “If you were a superhero, what would your special power be?”  Another one to be prepared for: “What was the last book you read?”  Some of these are meant to see how you handle things on the spot, so try not to let them bother you too much.  There is really no way to prep for this, but just remind yourself to remain calm and take a moment to gather your thoughts before you answer.

A bad interview rarely results in a job offer, so control what you’re able.  Do your research, prepare your answers, and go in with confidence.  Next time we’ll talk about two other essential ingredients…the handshake and the follow-up.

Until then,

Kristie L. Cross

Unemployment: Use the Time Wisely

For most of us, being without work is a devastating experience and, in today’s market, the time it takes to land a job can be lengthy and discouraging.  While it’s easy to crumble under the stress, it is essential to stay positive and active during this time.

Aside from the business of submitting resumes, there is plenty to be done that can open doors down the road.  Perhaps the most important is that of networking.  Today’s technology allows connections to be made across timelines and industries.  While not everyone will prove to be beneficial, it only takes one to open the door to your future. 

Social media is a great tool for networking and I highly recommend a completed LinkedIn account to get started.  This network of professionals is a place to touch base with former colleagues, as well as to extend your reach through their connections.  While it‘s ok to make it known that you’re looking for work, it is essential that you use the medium to showcase your expertise and experience.    Do not be afraid to brag about yourself a bit because if you don’t, who will?  Just be certain to keep it professional and accurate. 

Other social media sites should be utilized with great caution during this time.  Being jobless can be discouraging and the temptation to vent that frustration online can be dangerous.  Keep your posts positive and productive.  It’s great to let your network of friends know that you’re searching for work because they may have an important connection for you; however, they will be hesitant to recommend you to a friend if your recent posts have rambled about how horrible and depressing your life is at the moment.  Keep it positive or step away from the keyboard!

Blogging is another important tool that can be intimidating when you first get started, but can truly pay off in the search for employment.  Use the free time you have to get up-to-date on anything and everything involving your industry.  This can include the study of journal articles and polls to conducting some research on your own.  The goal here is to establish your credibility and to become known as a reliable source of information for others in your field.  Just be certain that you source properly and give credit where it’s due. 

Another great use of time is attending classes or webinars to stay current on industry trends.  I know many of you are probably thinking you cannot afford this while you’re unemployed, and I respect and agree with you.  However, there are great online resources available that are offered at no charge.  Take advantage of them!  The more you can learn and grow during this time, the shorter the journey may be.

While you’ll probably never look back on times of unemployment as times of joy, it is the goal to make it as productive as possible.  Anything you can do (even on a volunteer basis) that furthers your knowledge and experience in an industry should be viewed as grand opportunities not to be overlooked.  Many hiring managers will forgive your gap in employment if you can show that you used it to gain knowledge that will make you a more valuable member of their team. 

As difficult as it may be, keep working towards your goals and establishing new ones.  The moment of opportunity may arrive when you least expect it and from the most unlikely of sources!

The Art of the Resume

In a world where fast-food restaurants are never fast enough and the competition for greater speed in technology is never-ending, we demand the easiest, quickest process in all we do and recruiters/hiring managers are no exception to this rule. 

We recently accepted resumes for a direct hire position with a longstanding company that offered great pay and benefits.  As you can imagine in today’s job market, our recruiters were overwhelmed with applicants.  I truly wish those applying could have seen the process because it would have been a valuable learning experience for any job seeker. 

There were, of course, those who simply did not have the qualifications. They were the first to be eliminated and set aside.  Next to go were those who did not follow the instructions when submitting their information.  This is a sign to recruiters that they may fail in the same way once on the job.  True or not, this is a process of elimination and that’s part of the game.

This left the recruiters with those who held the minimum education and on-the-job experience qualifications and the stack was still quite high. So, now what?  Did you choose a fancy font that forces the recruiter to squint in an attempt to read your information?  Or perhaps the format is so confusing that the recruiter gives up and tosses you aside.  Either way, the pile will be shortened and a select few will remain.

While none of this may seem fair, it is the way of the hiring world.  There is no magic bullet in landing a position, but there are some simple mistakes that will take you out of the running before the race even begins. 

1.      Use a basic font and format.  Simple and easy-to-read is the name of the game here.  The only possible exception to this rule would be if you are applying for a creative position and, even then, try to remain within limits.

2.      Use keywords when describing your former positions.  A resume is not the place to ramble, but rather to catch the attention of the recruiter. 

3.      Make certain your contact details are accurate.  Often times, the recruiter will try your number once.  If there is no answer and no way to leave a message, your resume goes directly to the dreaded elimination pile.  Again, this is about speed and ease.  There are few exceptions.

4.      When possible, keep the resume to one page.  If your experience requires more space, don’t shortchange yourself.  Use the second page, but fill the majority of it.  A two-page resume with only one line on the second page gives a bad impression.  So, fill it or skip it. 

5.      Do not list references on your resume.  This is not the place for that information.  A simple line reading “References available upon request” is fine.  A hiring manager will assume this to be the case.

6.      Use the cover letter to sell yourself.  Tell them why your past experience makes you the perfect candidate for their position and what you can do for their company.  Again, do not ramble, but rather be concise and to the point.

7.      A common rule of thumb is to have no fewer than four people review both your resume and cover letter prior to its submission.  More eyes generally result in fewer grammatical and spelling errors that will get you tossed in the first round. 

Still not totally convinced of the importance of this single document?  Consider these quotations taken from actual resumes across the county provided by Rinkworks:

“"I am very detail-oreinted."

"Special skills: I've got a Ph.D. in human feelings."

"Objectives: 10-year goal: Total obliteration of sales and federal income taxes and tax laws."

"Thank you for your consideration. Hope to hear from you shorty!"

"Although I am seeking an accounting job, the fact that I have no actual experience in accounting may seem discouraging. However..."

A full list can be found here for your reading entertainment. 

Being passed over for a job due to lack of experience or education is disappointing but acceptable.  Losing an opportunity because of a bad choice on a resume is gut wrenching.  Slow down, review the suggestions above, and make a stellar impression that will keep you in the pile until the end. 

Above all else, it’s important to keep improving and growing even when you’re unemployed. We’ll talk more about that next time and how you can make the gaps in your employment history less damaging to your future opportunities.

Talk soon,

Kristie

A Little Relief, Please!

I am a runner.  Not the fast, speedy-Gonzalez type, but rather the slow, hitting-the-streets-everyday type.  I have never won a race (and never will), but I love this sport more than I can ever express to you through simple words.

This love affair began more than eight years ago when I got the urge to throw on my shoes and head out the door.  Two miles later, I was collapsed on my kitchen floor, struggling for breath, and smiling from ear to ear. 

What I did not know in that moment was how much joy this sport would bring to my life over the following years.  It has helped me through the rough days and allowed me to celebrate the good ones.  I have made friends that I would not have made otherwise and, most importantly, I have been reminded that I am capable of nearly anything if I have faith and determination in myself.

The world in which we live is a busy, stress-filled place and can easily cause one to become discouraged and overwhelmed.  No matter if we are employed, searching for work, or awaiting a promotion, there are just times when one needs to be able to vent and refocus their efforts.  For me, this is where running enters the scene.  I can be a mess when I leave and come back with a new outlook on life and ready to conquer the world!

None of us have perfect lives and we all require some form of relief and some way of coming back to center.  The world is a tough place and often calls for a solid line of defense.  If you do not currently have this plan in place, I urge you to take a moment now, step away from the computer, and develop a few ideas.  For some it is biking, yoga, or swimming while for others it may be gardening, building, or drawing.  The possibilities are truly limitless and you must find what works for you.

So often, we put these type of activities last.  I certainly did this with running during the early months.  I would hit the road once or twice a week because that’s all the time I thought I had.  So untrue!  I now realize there is always time for a run and that something else may just have to wait.  Running makes me a better woman and certainly a more hospitable resident here on Earth.  I am more successful at my job and a stronger part of our work environment when my runs are regular and consistent.

Find what brings you joy and peace and you will forever be thankful.  I can promise that it will give you a whole new outlook on yourself and your life.  The little things will seem smaller and you’ll begin to see what truly matters and how big of a difference you can make. 

Until next time,

Kristie

To Post or Not to Post…

With the boom of social media in recent years, it’s becoming more and more difficult to find someone who doesn’t have some sort of online presence in at least one social network site and you can be assured that employers are taking notice.  While we love the connections and interactions the medium provides, it’s a practice that many are still learning to navigate properly.

I recently had the opportunity to spend time with employees of an NFL team where the organization has created rules regarding their social media usage.  This is a tricky road to travel for employers because their employees’ online communication can greatly benefit the organization, but it also has the ability to send it tumbling. 

It was interesting to hear the employees discuss the issue as they were not upset or discouraged by the guidelines, but rather dedicated to following them without fail.  When asked what might happen if there was a violation, there seemed to be little doubt that serious consequences would occur in any situation.  I was told of an employee who was photographed with fans during a game last season and then tagged in the photo on Facebook.  This individual had failed to properly adjust her settings so that others were not allowed to tag her in their photos.  The group did not share with me the repercussions of her mistake, but left little doubt that there were consequences.

So, what does all of this mean for you?  Should you simply avoid social networking sites to protect yourself?  Absolutely not.  You should, however, take great care to protect your online presence and make certain that it represents the best possible image of yourself to both present and future employers. 

Making the decision of what is appropriate and what falls short can be a challenge because you must determine what OTHERS will deem appropriate and what might cause them hesitation when making a decision on your character.   I spoke with an acquaintance last week who could not understand why a joke he recently shared was offending some of his online friends. The important thing to remember here is that it doesn’t matter WHY, but only simply that it DOES. 

Another common mistake is thinking you don’t have to worry about a co-worker or employer seeing your posts due to privacy settings.  I beg of you never to assume this!  If something you post gets “shared” or “liked” by others, it then goes into their newsfeed and can be viewed by anyone in their network.  At this point, you have lost control over who sees the information and with whom they share it.  This is just one example of how you can slip into a dangerous situation very quickly with one simple post. 

No matter if you’re happily employed or searching for a job, one must be aware and conscious of their online profile and the type of message it is sending to others.  Social media is an amazing networking tool that has the ability to open doors to new opportunities if used correctly, but be warned: It can also slam doors shut that may never re-open. 

If you have questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact me at kcross@flexible-staffing.com.

Denied Temptation

If you were to Google “excuses for missing work”, you would find more than 13 million results related to the subject.  Shocking?  Not.  At.  All!  In the staffing industry, we hear a great deal of them on a weekly basis. 

                We all know the people whose great aunt in Florida has passed away five times or the guy (or gal) who has somehow managed to catch every known disease to man within the past year.  But what about the person whose fish died?  Seriously.  He needed to stay home to bury the fish.  I will give him kudos for his dedication to his finned friend.

                While it’s easy to laugh at the (ridiculous) excuses, it’s a matter that shouldn’t be taken lightly.  At Flexible Staffing, we have a one-strike-you’re-out “no call, no show” rule.  We’ve been told this is unreasonable, but we respectfully disagree.  We have a commitment to our clients that we will have a worker there when they have requested.  When that employee fails to show up, it is our reputation on the line and our recruiters who must then scramble to find a replacement.

                But let’s put all of that aside and look at things from the standpoint of the employee for a moment.  What defines a good reason to miss work?  Do you feel a bit under the weather…headache? Cough?  Get to work!  I know this sounds harsh, but truly you just have to toughen up sometimes.  We’ve all been there and most of us have survived.  You will do the same.  What about the car that won’t start?  This excuse always makes me scratch my head a bit.  Find a ride!  Use public transportation or beg a friend.  I’m not saying it’s easy and simple, but it’s almost always doable. 

                I know some of you are probably thinking that I’m just wrong and I respect your opinion, but I ask you this…What if you went to work just to find that the boss decided his cough would prevent him from opening the office for the day?  You would have wasted your time getting ready AND you would miss a day’s pay.  How happy would you be?  Would you be a bit appalled that a simple cough had kept him home? 

                There are days when the sun is shining and we would all rather be out playing.  I doubt there is any one of us that could deny that we’ve had the temptation to call in sick, but it’s just that…a temptation.  One that we leap over on our way to work!  In today’s market where jobs can be scarce, you simply cannot take the risk.  That temptation can be even greater if your company happens to have a points system that allows you a certain number of tardies and absences.  Don’t fall into the trap.  You’ll use those points for sunny days and then lose your job when a true emergency arises and you’re suddenly out of points.  Again…it’s not worth it!

We all understand that you get sick, emergencies come up, and relatives truly do pass away and we really are compassionate, warm-hearted people.  All that we ask is that you call both Flexible Staffing and the employer so we know the situation.  It will take less than five minutes and might make the difference in saving your job. 

The bottom line is this: you may not be in your dream job today.  In fact, it may be a job in which you find absolutely no joy.  But it’s a job and it will eventually lead to something greater.  For now, it’s supporting you and cannot be taken for granted.  Treat it as such.  I am a firm believer that great things will come when we respect what we have already received.  So get to work, do the job to your best ability, and remember that your day in the sunshine will arrive!

Have a fabulous weekend,

Kristie

Keep the Faith!

Unemployment can be one of the most terrifying situations in today’s world.  With an unsteady economy and massive healthcare changes looming, the fear of remaining without a job for months is not an unrealistic one.  While it can be easy to get discouraged and frustrated, there are things that can be done to best manage the situation.

                We see people in our offices on a daily basis that want full-time, permanent employment and that is certainly a reasonable request; however, when that’s not immediately available, I encourage you to consider the alternatives.  

It’s not a secret that gaps in employment are questioned by hiring managers during the initial interview process.  They will want to know why you were unemployed and how you spent your time while in that status.  We ask the same questions here at Flexible Staffing, but that doesn’t mean that a gap will knock you out of the running.

Temporary work is one way to fill that void and is especially beneficial if you can land a position that happens to be in your industry.  Not only will it provide a paycheck for a limited time, but it can also provide the opportunity to gain new skills and stay on top of the latest updates and trends within the business. 

Something else to keep in mind is, while it can never be guaranteed, that temp job may turn into something more if you perform at your top level.   According to national statistics, 43% of applicants get hired by the staffing client on a full-time basis and nearly all applicants reported they were able to get permanent work faster by using an agency like Flexible Staffing. 

Specialized training and further education are great additions to that part-time gig, as well.  The initiative it takes to enter a program, complete the work, and have a successful completion will demonstrate your work ethic and determination to potential employers. 

If you have not yet mastered the skill of networking, there is no better time than during a period of unemployment.  The old saying, “It’s not what you know, but who you know” is quite often true.  Reaching out to others, both in-person and online, can open doors to opportunities you never knew existed.  If you haven’t created a LinkedIn account, do so now.  Take the time to complete it fully and highlight what you have done in the past and the areas in which you added value to your past employers.  Once that is complete, begin making connections and exploring the possibilities.

There are a few rules in networking that should be considered:

1.        Do not visit Facebook and post something that resembles “I’m out of work.  What can you do to help me?”  While this may produce a few pity replies,   that’s not what we’re looking for here.  If you happen to have business contacts on Facebook, it would be fine to send a direct message to each contact and let them know you would appreciate them keeping you in mind if they hear of job opportunities. 

2.       Be cautious about “name dropping” when searching for work.  While it can be to your advantage and acceptable to mention a business acquaintance or friend to a potential employer, be sure that you do not abuse the privilege.  Claiming to know someone that will not recognize your name in a casual conversation with a hiring manager, could be detrimental down the road. 

3.       At all times, keep it professional and simple.  If the individual wants more information about your work history, he/she will most certainly ask.  Wait for them to do so when in a networking situation. 

The manner in which you handle your time of unemployment, rather it be one week or multiple months, will speak volumes to potential employers.  Make it count!  As difficult as it may be, keep placing one foot in front of the other and doing all you can to better yourself as both a person and an employee so that when your big opportunity arrives, you will be ready and fully prepared!   

Please feel free to visit our website at www.flexible-staffing.com today or contact me by email at kcross@flexible-staffing.com.

Until Next Time,

Kristie L. Cross