Tag Archive for: Job Searching

Is a Career in Manufacturing Right for You?

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When it comes to choosing a career, there are a multitude of options. From healthcare to education, technology to hospitality, each industry offers its own unique advantages and challenges. One industry that many people may overlook is manufacturing. With the current job market and increasing demand for skilled workers, manufacturing is becoming a more viable option for job seekers.

A survey conducted by WTW found that 53% of employees are open to changing jobs, with 44% having actively searched for a new job in the last quarter. The manufacturing industry is no exception, with a growing number of opportunities for those looking to enter the field.

Here are 6 reasons that a career in manufacturing might be perfect for you:

1. You Have Technical and Analytical Skills

First and foremost, manufacturing requires a certain skill set. While it may seem like a more low-skill industry, the truth is that manufacturing workers need to possess a variety of analytical and technical skills. It’s important for workers to be detail-oriented, have strong problem-solving skills, and can work with complex machinery. In the manufacturing environment, these skills could manifest in the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues, analyze production data for efficiency improvements, and make informed decisions when faced with production challenges. Demonstrating these skills can set a potential employee apart and prove their value in the fast-paced and complex world of manufacturing.

2. You Have Transferable Experience

Hiring Managers look for candidates who have a stable work history and the necessary skills for the position. You’d be surprised that several careers translate well to the manufacturing industry. For example, if you have experience in customer service, you may find that you excel in a manufacturing setting due to your ability to work well with others and deal with customer concerns. Cashiers would be great at mail processing due to their high attention to detail and team-focused mentality. People working in the food industry would be great at order fulfillment because they are task-oriented and can select necessary components. These are just a few examples, but it’s important to consider your own experiences and how they may be valuable in the manufacturing industry.

3. You Want Job Security

Another advantage of a career in manufacturing is job security. With the increasing demand for products and materials, manufacturers are always in need of skilled workers. Additionally, many manufacturing companies provide benefits such as healthcare and retirement plans, which can make for a stable and secure career path. As technology continues to advance, it’s likely that the need for skilled manufacturing workers will only increase, making this industry a valuable one to consider.

Additionally, manufacturing plays a pivotal role in the economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. It forms the backbone of any economy, driving growth, enhancing productivity, and fostering innovation. This sector is particularly crucial for providing job security due to its consistent need for skilled labor. The demand for manufactured goods doesn’t wane, even in economic downturns, maintaining a steady need for a diligent workforce. Consequently, a career in manufacturing can offer you a level of job security unmatched in many other fields, making it a compelling choice for those seeking stability and growth in their professional journey.

4. You Work Well in a Team Environment

Working in a customer-facing role demonstrates that you are capable of collaboratively interacting and communicating effectively with a team. This experience, where you often work hand in hand with your colleagues to deliver the best service possible, is a clear testament to your teamwork abilities. Daily interactions with customers help you hone your skills in listening, empathy, and problem-solving, all crucial elements in a manufacturing team setting. Furthermore, dealing with a variety of customer needs and expectations equips you with the adaptability to work alongside diverse team members, contributing positively to team dynamics and overall productivity in the manufacturing environment.

5. You Are Dependable and Reliable

Dependability and reliability are highly valued qualities in the manufacturing industry. The nature of the manufacturing sector demands strict adherence to schedules and precision, which can only be ensured when team members are reliable and dependable. A reliable employee consistently meets their deadlines, is punctual, and is rarely absent, which directly contributes to the smooth operation of the production line. Dependable individuals follow through on their commitments and can handle responsibilities effectively. This combination of traits not only ensures that the manufacturing process stays on track, but also builds trust within the team, leading to a more efficient and harmonious working environment.

6. You Have a Good Attitude

A positive attitude is an essential trait for those aspiring to excel in the manufacturing industry. This sector is characterized by dynamic environments that require resilience, adaptability, and an eagerness to overcome unexpected challenges. Individuals with a positive mindset are more likely to develop creative solutions, embrace new technologies, and work effectively as part of a team. Employers value those who bring a can-do attitude to the workplace and are willing to learn and grow. Remember, a good attitude not only benefits yourself but also makes for a better work environment for everyone. Keep an open mind and maintain a positive outlook, and you’ll be sure to impress potential employers in the manufacturing industry.

Succeeding Together

A career in manufacturing can be a highly rewarding and fulfilling choice for individuals who possess the right skill set and mindset. With its emphasis on precision, innovation, and problem-solving, the manufacturing industry offers a unique blend of job security, benefits, and potential for professional growth. Moreover, the transferable experiences gained in various fields can be seamlessly applied to the manufacturing industry, making it an attractive option for career seekers from diverse backgrounds.

If you are intrigued by the prospects of a career in manufacturing, we invite you to explore our wide range of open positions. Each opportunity presents a chance to contribute to the industry’s growth and find a role that resonates with your passion and ambitions. Don’t miss out on the exciting possibilities that await you in the dynamic world of manufacturing!

5 Reasons How Skills-First Recruiting Can Benefit Your Job Search in Minnesota

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Are you tired of being judged on your experience rather than your skills? Then, you may want to use skills-first recruiting to your advantage when searching for a job in Minnesota. This helps job seekers demonstrate the skills needed to be successful and shift the focus away from formal requirements.

Many industries in today’s market are turning to this hiring approach as it targets an individual’s abilities and potential instead of credentials or past experiences. By placing the focus on skills businesses effectively expand their candidate pool to find the talent they need. This means that job seekers now have a greater likelihood of securing a competitive position by playing up their skills in the application process.

Here are 5 reasons how skills-first recruiting benefits your job search:

1. Promotes Equal Opportunity

Skills-based hiring helps level the playing field by emphasizing merit and competency rather than pedigree or background. This creates a fairer and more inclusive job market where candidates from diverse backgrounds, regardless of their educational qualifications or prior work experience, have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their skills and be considered for a role. This approach benefits job seekers because it enables them to overcome barriers and break into industries or positions they might not have traditionally qualified for, thus broadening their horizons. Job seekers should make sure to include adequate information about their skillset when applying for a job in order to take advantage of this approach.

2. Showcases Your Potential

For those who may not have extensive work experience or who are transitioning into a new field, skills-based hiring provides a platform to showcase their potential and abilities. This is a great way to show how your strengths and accomplishments are relevant, regardless of industry or background. It is essential to highlight your skills in a way that resonates with potential employers. One way to do this is by tailoring your resume to fit the specific requirements of the job. Take cues from the job description and use keywords that align with your skills and experience. Make sure to address how your specific skills and results you’ve accomplished add value to their organization. With the right preparation and confidence, you can prove to employers that you have the right skills and potential to succeed in any role.

3. Emphasizes Your Skills to Stand Out

Job seekers can use their skills to stand out in the hiring process. When applying for a job, it can be easy to list your experience first and foremost on your application. However, emphasizing your skills is an even more effective way to grab the attention of employers. Employers want to hire people who possess technical, soft, and problem-solving skills that align with the job responsibilities. Highlighting your unique and relevant abilities can make you a more attractive candidate, thus increasing your chances of landing the job.

4. Increased Opportunities for Growth

Focusing on skills when hiring promotes a growth mindset and encourages employers to invest in their workforce’s development and training. Companies that prioritize hiring candidates with specific skills tend to provide more opportunities for professional growth and advancement. Job seekers can benefit greatly from this approach as they gain access to skill-building programs, mentoring, and on-the-job training, all of which can enhance their expertise and improve their career prospects.

5. Enhanced Self-Awareness

The skills-based hiring process encourages job seekers to reflect on their own abilities, identify their strengths, and understand areas for improvement. By evaluating and articulating their skills effectively, candidates gain a better understanding of their own qualifications, which can be invaluable during interviews and performance reviews. This self-awareness enables job seekers to align their career aspirations with their skill sets, making more informed decisions about job opportunities and professional growth.

 

Overall, skills-first recruiting is a growing trend in the hiring world and for good reason. By focusing on skills and experience over job titles and education, employers can find the best candidates for the job and create a more equitable hiring process. As a job seeker, emphasizing your unique skills and experience can help you stand out in a crowded field and land the job you deserve.

At Award Staffing we understand the importance of matching each candidate to a job they will succeed in. Our staffing specialists analyze your skills, needs, and goals to find a job that is right for you. Contact us today or view our open positions to find your future.

How to Create Your Next Job: 5 Tips for Taking Control of Your Career

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Perhaps you can relate to the following scenario: you’ve been working at your job for a few years, and you’re starting to feel restless. You’re not necessarily unhappy with your current position, but you can’t help but wonder what else is out there. You might even daydream about finding a new, more fulfilling job that offers better pay and benefits. But then you remember that you’re stuck in your current role, and you don’t know how to get out. If this sounds familiar, then it’s time to take control of your career!

In this blog post, we will discuss 5 tips for creating your next job.

Tip #1: Know what you want

Trying to figure out what you want to do with your life can feel like a daunting task. There are so many possibilities and options, and it can be hard to know where even to start. However, it’s important to have a clear idea of what you want before you begin exploring your options. What are your goals? What type of work do you see yourself doing? Once you have a good understanding of what you’re looking for, it will be easier to identify opportunities.

If you take the time to ask yourself some critical questions, it will be easier to find direction and identify opportunities. So, don’t be afraid to ask yourself what you want. It’s an essential first step in charting your course toward a fulfilling career.

Tip #2: Seek out opportunities for growth

We all face opportunities in life. Some are big, and some are small, but each one has the potential to shape our future in some way. It can be easy to let opportunities pass us by, especially if we’re not sure if we’re ready for them. But you should always seize opportunities when they come our way. If you see an opportunity for advancement in our company, a new job, or even just a new experience, you shouldn’t hesitate to go for it. Sure, there’s always the chance that things might not work out the way you hope, but if you don’t take chances, you’ll never know what might have been. Go out and seize every opportunity that comes your way. You never know where it might lead you.

Tip #3: Network, network, network

Landing your dream job takes more than just submitting a killer resume and crossing your fingers. First, you need to put yourself out there and make connections with people in your industry. Attending industry events is a great way to meet potential employers and get your foot in the door. You can also connect with people on LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional networking site. Start by joining industry-specific groups and participating in discussions. You never know where your next job opportunity might come from, so keeping your network strong is important. With a little effort, you’ll be on your way to landing the job of your dreams.

Tip #4: Be well informed

Whether you’re currently employed or on the job market, it’s always a good idea to stay up-to-date on industry trends. This will not only make you more marketable, but it will also help you identify new work opportunities. There are several ways to stay informed about industry trends. One way is to read trade publications or sector-specific websites. Another way is to attend industry conferences or networking events. Or, if you know someone who works in your desired field, you could always ask them for their insights. By taking some time to stay current on industry trends, you can give yourself a real competitive advantage.

Tip #5: Take risks

It can be scary to take risks, especially when it comes to your career. After all, you want to do everything you can to secure a stable future for yourself and your family. However, sometimes the best way to create your next job is to simply create it yourself. By starting your own business or taking on freelance work, you can put yourself in control of your own career path.

Of course, there are no guarantees when it comes to entrepreneurship. But by taking the leap, you might find that you’re able to achieve things you never thought possible. So don’t be afraid to take risks. Sometimes the best way to create your next job is to simply create it yourself!

Empowering yourself

Taking control of your career can be scary, but it’s also empowering. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to landing the job of your dreams. So don’t wait for a promotion – start taking action today!

If you’re looking for a job that will allow you to take control of your future, Award Staffing is the place for you. We offer a wide variety of career opportunities, from entry-level to management-level positions. And we’re always looking for talented and ambitious individuals who are ready to take their careers to the next level. So what are you waiting for? Apply today and start seizing every opportunity that comes your way!

How Working with a Staffing Agency Can Help You Find Meaningful Work

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While everyone has different definitions of “meaningful work”, I think we could all agree that we all want to have a job that is meaningful. Working a job that feels meaningful, makes going to work 5 days per week more fulfilling and increases employee retention as well as the likelihood of people moving up within their company.

Finding meaningful work can be difficult though as it is hard to gage what working at a certain company will be like and what their values are, prior to getting hired on and seeing for yourself. This is why we highly recommend partnering with a staffing agency to find meaningful work.

Staffing agencies work with hundreds of clients at a time and have likely toured the facilities, spoken with multiple leaders within the company, and gotten feedback from candidates and associates about what it’s like to work there. This allows them to get a good idea of what the experience will be like for employees, so they can offer input on whether or not a specific position or company will be a good fit for you.

Working with a staffing agency can give you access to:

1. Companies that Contribute to the Common Good

Recent studies have shown that regardless of how well employees are being compensated, they still want to work in an organization that gives back. Whether it’s to the local community or somewhere on the other side of the world, companies that give back get more interest from prospects and have higher employee retention rates. As a staffing agency will know their client very well, they can share what the company does to contribute to the common good and you can decided if it is a cause you want to get on board with.

2. Work that Involves Building Essential Products or Helping Others with their Needs

Despite any preconceived notions people may have about warehouse work or any type of light industrial position, many of those jobs are essential for society to function. There are many companies where warehouse employees are building medical devices, transporting essential goods, packaging and shipping important packages, and/or distributing healthy goods. If you want to directly contribute to a better functioning world, warehouses are a great place to do so. If you have something specific in mind, you can ask your recruiter what companies and positions they have that are in those lines of work.

3. Companies that Will Value You

Everyone wants to feel valued whether they are part-time or full-time. It’s truly a given that all companies should go out of their way to make their employees feel appreciated, but sadly many companies don’t. The good news is, all staffing agencies are in regular contact with their associates to check-in and ask for feedback on their new position. They know and want to partner with companies that appreciate the associates they send and can recommend that you apply and interview with the ones that do.

4. Organizations with a Good Company Culture

Today, company culture is more important than ever. Since people spend so much time at their place of employment, they want to be in a place where there are good relationships between colleagues and management, and where they can feel comfortable going in and not like they are walking on eggshells every day. A good company culture starts with leadership and since recruiters are always communicating with their clients, they know the places that have the best company culture. Since they have seen the facilities and can tell you whether or not the environment is clean, what the noise levels are, and how closely you will be working with others, you can use that to make your decision.

5. A Company that Honors what is Important to You

Different things are important to different people. Some people want to work for a company with plenty of overtime opportunities, while others want to work for a company with generous PTO and flexible schedules. Some people want a place where they are offered a 9-5 schedule; others want an overnight shift to accommodate their lifestyle. If you share with your recruiter what is important to you, they can determine which companies match what you’re looking for and the right way to tailor your résumé to get an interview with that company.

If you or anyone you know is looking for a job, we update our job boards regularly. Click here for a list of our current open positions.

The Three P’s of a Job Search

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If there’s anything positive about the current state of the workforce, which economists are calling The Great Resignation, it is that current job seekers have the ability to be particular about what they are looking for in their next job and/or company. This is an opportunity for candidates to find a place that they will be with for the long haul because of the fact that there are millions more openings than there are people willing to take them at the moment.

But the question is: do you know what you want? To make certain your next position meets your needs and non-negotiables; you must get explicitly clear on what your own expectations are. This begins by listing out your priorities and asking yourself the right questions. These three “P’s” will be helpful in determining the critical components of what you want in a job.

1. Practicality

This involves taking a good look at what your lifestyle involves outside of work and deciding whether you want to work around it or are willing to make changes to meet the needs of the position. Do you need evenings and weekends off? Do you thrive in a certain type of environment? Do you prefer a structured environment with clear deadlines or do better moving at your own pace? Do you do well in an office environment or would you rather be working out in the field? Right now, it does not have to be all about the company and what you can offer them. Since modern times post-pandemic are being classified as “a candidate market”; use this time to your advantage by looking for what companies can offer you. If you want to be happy over the long term, it’s best not to jump into the first thing that comes your way just because it’s in your area of expertise. Make sure that any job you apply for checks most of the boxes for you. Remember, you deserve to be happy just as much as your employer deserves to have a stellar employee. Set yourself up for success by identifying what you want and choosing roles that are a good match.

2. Passion

If you want to sustain your work and schedule without burning out, it is crucial that there is passion behind the work you are doing. While everyone would like to be passionate about the exact work they are doing as well as the industry that are in,  though that is the ideal, there are multiple ways you can be passionate about your job that many people don’t tend to think about. Do you like managing a team and providing feedback? Do you enjoy writing and content creating? Do you like being part of projects from start to finish? Do you like onboarding and working with clients? Maybe a company that you’re interested in is working to end a social problem…No matter what it is, passion is one of the biggest factors in staying motivated while you’re at work; therefore you must find it in one way or another.

3. Personal Fulfillment

This goes for your work and your personal life. In order to continue to enjoy your work, you have to make sure that it is not interfering too much with your personal life. While being passionate about your job is great, you can’t get so caught up in working that it is the only thing you do. That is a sure-fire way to lead to burn out. As for your job goes, being fulfilled will ensure that you are happy to show up every day and are doing your best work. Like passion, there are a number of ways you can find personal fulfillment in your workplace. Some examples include: enjoying the team you work with, enjoying your day-to-day tasks, knowing that the work you’re doing is contributing to the greater good, and regularly hitting your goals.

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If you or anyone you know is looking for a job, we at Award Staffing are here to help. Check out our latest opportunities here.

Using the Great Resignation to Your Advantage

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It’s no secret that over the past several months, there has been and continues to be more job openings than there are people currently looking for work. In fact, it is estimated that in the United States, there are over a million more positions available than there are people willing to fill them. The pandemic has significantly changed how people view their time and has provided the mental space for people to think about what they really want. Additionally, many people have made lifestyle changes such as homeschooling their children and picking up new hobbies- things they are not willing to give up now that they have experienced them. This has resulted in a mass exodus across the workforce, which is now being referred to as The Great Resignation.

However, if you are someone who is in search of a job, this is your chance to find your dream job. The benefit of there being so many openings is that you can be more particular about the places and positions that you choose, because there are most certainly multiple positions available that match both your lifestyle and your preferences. Here are three things to consider as you’re searching for your newest position:

List Your Non-Negotiables

Now is a time that you can build your career around your lifestyle instead of the other way around, so get clear on what you are and are not willing to accept. Did you used to work 60 hours a week and now you only want to work 40? Did your last job require monthly travel that you don’t want to partake in anymore? Do you only want a certain commute time? If you want to ensure that you’re happy with your job and new company in the long run, take advantage of the abundance of opportunities and only apply for jobs that match what you are looking for. Gone are the days (for now) of taking the first position you’re offered or taking a job solely for the pay.

Consider a New Industry

This could be your chance to finally pursue a job in a field that you’ve always ruminated about. Because there is such a shortage of workers, many companies are willing to look past the need for experience and train new employees. Don’t miss this opportunity by being too intimidated to apply. Search job boards for your dream position and go for it! You never know what will come of it.

 

Follow & Engage with Companies You’re Interested in on Social Media

One of the best things you can do if you want to get in with a company, is to build rapport with them. LinkedIn is the best place to do this, but if they are active on other platforms, those can be great as well. Comment on their posts, ask questions, participate in their polls. This way when you submit your application, there is a chance they will recognize your name. If they don’t, you can talk about how you’re active on their social media in your interview. Also, they may even list job postings on there- be the first to know.

If you or someone you know is looking for a new job, we at Award Staffing are here to help. Check out our latest job postings here.

How to Determine a Company’s Culture

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Before accepting a job at any company, it’s a good idea to gage what the ambience of working there will be like. Especially if you would like it to be a long-term position that helps you grow in your career, you want to ensure that it will be an environment where you fit in well and feel confident that you can thrive. Employees today list company culture as one of their top values. They know that even if they are compensated well, if they aren’t comfortable in the environment or with the people they are working with, it is unlikely to last long.

If you flat out ask a hiring manger or recruiter what a company culture is like, they will likely just tell you want you want to hear. Of course, when they are in need of more employees and know that you are a good candidate, they’ll say whatever they have to in order to keep you. That is why you as a job seeker can (and should) ask discreet questions and pay attention to subtle signs that help you gain a better perspective on what a company’s culture is truly like. Here are some suggestions:

 

1. Show up Early to an Interview and Observe

Instead of looking through your materials or going over what you plan to say in your head, pay attention to how the employees are interacting. Did the receptionist greet you? Are the employees conversing with one another? Is the office atmosphere quiet because everyone is working independently? Notice things like the dress code and how the office is decorated. This can be a good indicator of if it is a place you would enjoy working.

Whatever you take note of in the office; it is up to you to decide if you truly envision yourself working there. Everyone is going to have a different preference for what type of company will be a good fit for them. Gaging a culture begins from the moment you walk in the door.

2. Ask: “How long have you been with the company?”

This doesn’t just go for the person interviewing you, ask as many people as you can. If everyone you speak with has had a short tenure with the company, you need to ask more questions, such as, ‘how long have the longest employees worked here.” In the chance that the company is new, this can be ok. However, if it’s an established company, this is likely a sign that a company needs improvement. Maybe people are expected to work too much or that they would benefit from changing management.

3. Ask: “Does anyone here ever transfer departments?”

If you’ve ever been in a position where you enjoyed your company, just not your department, but were denied every opportunity to make a lateral move; it can be tempting to overtly ask if transfers are allowed. Most of the time, companies claim that they have plenty of flexibility and career growth, but often when the time comes, they choose to keep you stagnant for their own benefit. There’s nothing that will tell you more than specific examples. If they introduce you to someone who has made a lateral move, even better. 

4. Ask about Lunch Breaks

While you don’t have to ask specific questions about lunch, get an idea of how most employees spend their breaks. If you find out that everyone takes lunch at their desk, it could mean that employees are too overworked to disengage- even just for half an hour. It could also imply that the majority of people who work there are introverted and that it isn’t an office with a lot of interaction. While some people may prefer this, others may rather work for a company with strong social connections and a lot of team work. Depending on your preference, this can tell you a lot.

5. Review the Company on Multiple Platforms

This can happen before or after you go in for an interview. Look at employee review sites such as Glassdoor to see how internal employees rate the company. Where are their strengths and where are they falling short?  Also, LinkedIn to see employee profiles. Take note of how long several of them have been working for the company and what they list as their interests and job history. This way you can infer whether or not it is a pleasant place to work and see if you have anything in common with current employees.

6. Ask about Internal Career Paths

Just like everything else, ask for specific examples of where someone started, where they are now, and what it took for them to get there. How long were they with the company before they got their first promotion? How did they get the promotion, were they offered it or did they have to apply for it? Asking the right questions here is important because you don’t want them to give you a generic answer. If professional growth is important to you, it’s important that you find a company that not only sees your value, but also wants to see you expand.

When searching for your next best opportunity, you’ll want to make sure that a company matches your expectations. The best way to ensure this happens is with observation, research, and asking the right questions.

If you are currently in search of a new job, check out our latest opportunities here.

 

Three TED Talks to Inspire Your Job Search

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Looking for a job is a trying time. Your patience and your resourcefulness can be tested, to say nothing of your perseverance and your morale. At times you’re going to need different ways to motivate yourself. Most people turn to their friends and family during those times but there are going to be instances where you need to find different ways to light a fire under yourself. TED Talks are a great way to get started on that process. The talks started in 2006 as a way of offering brief lectures on content of varying topics, given by experts and experienced practitioners within different fields. Here are some of our favorite TED Talks related to the job search process.

Jason Shen’s “Looking for a job? Highlight your ability, not your experience”

Many people in the job hunt are not just looking to find a new opportunity – they’re looking to find a different opportunity. This becomes especially relevant if you are interested in changing fields. If you’re transitioning from one industry to another then your actual experience might not be the most relevant part of your job seeker profile. Instead, you need to rebrand yourself and pitch yourself based off of your ability to perform work in the new field rather than your track record in the old field. Shen’s talk touches on all of these points while also noting how the job applicant evaluation process needs to change to incorporate this level of thinking about a person’s potential.

Scott Dinsmore’s “How to find work you love”

Scott Dinsmore’s talk is a humorous foray through his past experience, including some of the worst advice he’s ever gotten, as he discusses how to find a career that has meaning and potential for you. He emphasizes the fact that the vast majority of people don’t enjoy their work, and how you can set yourself apart from the pack. He is a big believer that personal relationships can influence what we do and the paths our careers take, so it’s crucial to be mindful of who you associate with. Dinsmore is a thoughtful and engaging speaker, and his talk can be a real boost.

Carol Fishman Cohen’s “How to get back to work after a career break”

We all know that life is not a straight path or a straight line. Your career can be disrupted or paused for any number of reasons – maybe you need to take care of an ill relative, or you need to go back to school for a while. No matter the reason, your career has hit a delay or a detour. This is completely fine, and Cohen is ready to talk “relaunchers” into how they can hit the ground running if and when they choose to enter the workforce again.

Working on finding a new job is really a job unto itself a lot of the time. The stress and strain are very real, so make sure that you’re taking the time to use resources like these videos if you ever feel the need to recharge your batteries as you hunt your next great opportunity.

Looking for the right position? Let Award Staffing help when you reach out to us today.

How To Maneuvering Job Searching Through COVID-19

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Right now times are very uncertain, very stressful and even a bit frightening. The COVID-19 outbreak has not only caused a health crisis but an economic crisis, as well. In a matter of days, millions of people found themselves suddenly out of work. Millions more are weeks or even days away from losing their jobs, and millions more still are left uncertain about whether their companies will last through this crisis.

While the numbers are bleak and you are probably anxious, there is good news. Companies all across the country are hiring right now and many companies still have long-term plans to hire throughout the year. That means that the best thing for you to do right now is to continue your job search, despite your anxiety. Follow these tips to keep your job search on track through COVID-19.

Remember, This is Temporary

While no one can say for sure how long all of this will last, the one thing they can say for certain is that this is all temporary. It will end one day and the economy will open back up. It will be the people who kept their nose to the grindstone and kept looking throughout the downtimes who will rise up the fastest and go the farthest when things get back to something resembling normalcy.

Search Every Day

If you have already lost your job or you are in danger of losing your job, make sure you are doing search-related activities for a few hours every single day. You don’t have to do them for eight hours a day which can be daunting, but you should do a few hours, at least. Then, spend time decompressing with your family, taking a walk outside and looking for silver linings where you can find them.

Be Smart, Be Safe

Many employers are making use of video chats for interviews, but some are still holding in-person interviews. If you do go to an employer, make sure to stay 3-6 feet away from other people, do not shake hands, try to avoid touching metal or glass surfaces, wash your hands and use hand sanitizer.

Be Reachable

Now is not the time to screen calls. If an employer can’t reach you, they will move on to someone else. Make sure to check your email multiple times a day and respond to any potential employer’s outreach in less than 24 hours. Keep your phone on you at all times and answer any calls from unknown numbers.

Be Reliable

Even being a few seconds late to a phone or video interview can cost you a job right now. Make sure that you have the date and time correct and test links to video chats at least an hour before the meeting so you can notify the employer if there is a problem. Finally, just as you would arrive early to an interview, sign in or dial in at least 10 minutes early – unless you are instructed otherwise.

Insist on Quiet

If you have a family sharing one space, it can be difficult to find quiet for an interview. Luckily, everyone is in the same boat and employers will certainly understand if a baby cries or a child comes bursting in the room during an interview, but try to find a quiet place to hold the interview so that you can concentrate and put your best foot forward. Send your family on a walk or bike ride, or if you can’t find quiet, sit in your car.

Use Your Downtime Wisely

If you have lost your job, it’s important to keep busy. Being in isolation in addition to being unemployed can be a recipe for depression. Just as you block off time every day to search for jobs, block off time to learn a new skill or hone an existing one. There are myriad free resources online and many formerly-paid programs are being offered for free to help people struggling with the economic impact of COVID-19. Learning something new will not only pass the time in a constructive way, but it will also help you enhance your resume.

Be Visible On Social Media

Social distancing is a great excuse to forego in-person networking for social networking. So get visible on LinkedIn by participating in groups and getting in touch with contacts you haven’t spoken with in a while. This is also a great time to make professional Facebook and Twitter profiles to share industry-related posts and information.

Work With A Staffing Firm

A job search can be incredibly overwhelming at any time, let alone in these uncertain and stressful times. Working with a staffing firm can help ease your stress while also increasing the chances of finding a good job. If you are looking for a job, please browse Award Staffing’s open jobs and apply online today or contact our team to learn more about the ways we can help you get working.

3 Ways Job Seekers Can Create Their Own Luck

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We hear from a lot of job seekers that it seems as though dream jobs just fall into other people’s laps. A recruiter reaches out at the right time for an amazing opportunity, or someone’s uncle has connections at an awesome company. Some of our job seekers feel like it was simple luck that helped them find their previous job as well.

Here’s what we’ve learned helping thousands of “lucky” people find their future: it wasn’t just luck. In order to accept a killer new job opportunity, you need to be prepared first. Hard work won’t bring you a well-connected uncle or magically open a role, but you can make sure you’re in the best position possible for the next opportunity.

Here are three ways that you can generate some luck for your job search.

Put yourself in the right place at the right time

This isn’t about being in the right place physically, but the right place mentally and emotionally. If you have a vision of what you want your next job to be, you need to get yourself to a place where you will be an ideal candidate. Take an online class or volunteer after work to build skills you may be lacking. Tackle anything in your personal life that may make it difficult to relocate or start new hours. Once you’ve put yourself in a better position to accept a new job, the perfect opportunity will arrive seemingly out of nowhere.

While you’re creating your own luck, you also need to demonstrate that you’re ready for new opportunities. Sharing your information with a staffing agency can make it even easier for “luck” to find you.

Find the magic words

Standing outside of your dream employer’s building yelling, “Open sesame!” definitely won’t get you a job. Instead, you need to find the words that will help you get past the tougher barrier: the hiring manager. Read the job posting closely and use words from the posting in your resume and cover letter to demonstrate how you’re a good fit for the job. Look at the language the company uses on their website. Present yourself in a way that makes it easy for the recruiter or hiring manager to see how you’re a good fit.

The other magic words you need to use are the ones your mother taught you: ‘please’ and ‘thank you.’ Good old-fashioned manners are becoming a lost art. Whomever you speak to during the process will appreciate a kind, polite candidate.

Create your own good luck charm or magical ritual

Rituals are important for helping you feel comfortable before a job interview. On interview day, perform your usual morning routine, allowing plenty of time to eat and prepare for the day. If you have a lucky tie or a lucky bracelet, be sure to wear it to help you feel more confident. Develop a mantra to help you through the job-seeking process, such as, “I’m ready to share my value.” Repeat it to yourself whenever you feel nervous.

Award Staffing is eager to help you find your luck and more importantly, your future. Call us or visit one of our branches today.