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12 Constructive Tips For Unemployed Workers

Constructive Things To Do  While You’re Unemployed

 

If you’re unemployed and currently searching for a job, you already know that a big part of your routine is waiting around. Maybe you’ve let everyone from your old boss to your hairdresser know that you’re interested in a new opportunity. Maybe you’ve been attending job fairs, and you’ve even landed a few promising interviews.

 

Now, you need something constructive you can do while you’re waiting for the phone to ring.

 

In fact, given that some aspects of finding employment tend to feel like they’re beyond your control, engaging in meaningful activities could boost your mood and make you a more attractive job candidate.

 

Run down this checklist for things you can do for yourself and your career.

 

Things to Do for Yourself:

 

  1. Work out regularly. If you have free time on your hands, spend it at the gym. As you shape up your body, you’ll also find that exercise is a safe way to deal with the stress that comes with being unemployed.
  2. Connect with family and friends. Take advantage of opportunities to hang out with those you love. Plan a weekend outing with your family to visit parks and free museums. Invite a friend to join you on your morning run.
  3. Appreciate nature. Enjoying the great outdoors can lift your spirits and boost your energy levels. Do some yard work. Take a nature hike on your own or bring your children along.
  4. Read more. When is the last time you read a book for pleasure? Expand your mind by catching up on fiction and nonfiction titles. Visit the library to borrow the latest bestsellers or classics that you loved as a child.
  5. Clean house. Neat and orderly surroundings help to fight anxiety. Clear away the clutter that’s been building up in your closets and garage. Scrub your bathroom floor and air out your mattresses.
  6. Review your budget. Take a close look at your finances. Look for ways to cut costs on entertainment or utilities. Try using your hobby to earn some money by becoming a Russian tutor or a part-time caterer.
  7. Practice your faith. Find comfort and strength in your spiritual practice. It can help you to deal with the emotional and economic consequences of being jobless. Browse online for churches and meditation centers in your neighborhood or build a shrine at home.

 

Things to Do for Your Career:

 

  1. Take a course. See what kinds of classes are available at your local community college or online universities. You could study coding or basic accounting.
  2. Build your portfolio. What would make your resume stand out? Interview a thought leader in your field, and publish your work online or in an industry publication. Produce an educational video and post it on YouTube.
  3. Volunteer your services. Giving back to your community can increase your self-esteem and make you more attractive to potential employers. Participate in fun runs and food drives. Contact a charity that interests you and discuss how you could help upgrade their database or write a quarterly newsletter. Still stumped? Try a volunteer aggregation site like Volunteer Match
  4. Polish your online presence. Do you wish your LinkedIn profile attracted more traffic? Makeover your digital identity by updating your accomplishments and taking down any unflattering photos.
  5. Explore your options. Maybe you want to continue in your field or maybe you’re interested in taking another route. Review your experience and contacts with an eye as to how they could help you transition your career.

 

While you want to stay on top of any activities that will bring you closer to your next position, there are many ways to find fulfillment while you’re waiting for that job offer. Use the time you spend unemployed to keep learning and growing in your personal and professional life.

 

If you’d like some help with finding some opportunities, check our Job Search Engine.

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Resume Writing With These 11 Essential Tips

Read This Before You Exaggerate in Your Resume Writing

 

There’s a lot of pressure to embellish your resume but lying about your qualifications could be disastrous. You may be confused about where to draw the line, especially if you’re new to the job market or returning after some time off.

 

If so, you have plenty of company. About 46% of adults know someone who has included false information on a resume, according to a survey by the staffing firm OfficeTeam.

 

It’s a disturbing situation because the risks and consequences of getting caught are so high. Hiring managers may notice inconsistencies between your online profile and your application or your new boss may have a conversation with one of your former coworkers. As a result, you could lose a job offer or even be fired.

 

You can avoid exaggerating in your resume writing and still present yourself as an outstanding candidate. Try these alternative strategies for making your experience and education sound as impressive as possible without stretching the truth.

 

Being Honest About Your Experience:

 

  1. Seek professional help. If you’re having trouble attracting job offers or feel like you need to market yourself more effectively, consider working with a job coach or a resume writing service. Someone with expertise in human resources can help you deal with weaknesses and showcase your strengths.
  2. List correct dates. Gaps in employment history are common these days. Explain how you used your downtime productively with contract work or volunteering.
  3. State your job title. What if you operated at a higher level than your job title suggests, or few employers would understand what it even means? Include the official label of your position as part of your resume writing, but back it up with additional details about what you actually did.
  4. Describe your role. You’ve probably been advised to focus on your impact and quantify your achievements. Use your judgement and ask others for feedback if you think you may be getting too creative. Persuading one customer to order a $20 entree instead of a $10 dish is different from doubling sales.
  5. Assess your skills. Is there a long list of software programs and foreign languages at the bottom of your resume? Be sure to describe your level of proficiency and fluency accurately. You may be tested during the hiring process or on the job.
  6. Consider your hobbies. Unless your pastimes are relevant to the position, you can usually leave them off. If you do mention them, pick activities you really participate in.
  7. Do volunteer work. Supporting worthy causes is a great way to make your resume stand out. If you’ve been neglecting your charitable side, it’s easy to catch up. Call a volunteer hotline or ask your neighbors about local nonprofits they like. You can also check aggregation sites like Volunteer Match
  8. Disclose your salary. You can get a raise without inflating your last salary. Many employers rely more on market value and their own budget in determining compensation. Practicing your negotiation skills will help too.

 

Being Honest About Your Education:

 

  1. Forget about grades. Outside of academia, few employers will want to hear about your GPA. On the other hand, you might want to brag about graduating summa cum laude if the facts bear it out.
  2. Declare your major. Cheer up even if the job ad specifies a different major than yours. Most companies are flexible about such matters.
  3. Complete your degree. Claiming fictitious degrees can be hazardous to your career. If you need additional credentials to advance, consider going back to school or taking additional courses at a local university or online.

 

Honesty is the safer policy when it comes to applying for a job. Design a resume that will help you sell yourself and double check the contents to ensure you’re painting an accurate picture of your background and potential.

 

If you’re in the market for places to submit your flashy new resume, check our Job Search Engine.

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An Employer Says You’re Overqualified 12 Things You Want to Know

Imagine someone refusing to date you because you’re too kind and beautiful. Yet, when you’re job hunting, you may run into employers who tell you that you’re overqualified for the position.

 

How can you keep your impressive credentials and extensive experience from working against you? Follow these steps designed to help overqualified candidates land a job offer.

 

Applying for Jobs When You’re Overqualified

 

Hiring managers may toss your resume as soon as they see your executive titles or advanced degree. Be proactive about addressing common concerns, starting with your first contact.

 

These strategies will help you land an interview:

 

  1. Research openings. Be selective about where you apply. Look for companies with a track record of hiring employees with future needs in mind. If possible, target companies and positions where you’re likely to find engaging work.
  2. Pick a reason. There are many reasons for considering a somewhat junior position. Maybe you’re relocating or trying to break into a new industry. In any case, focus on your primary motivation and why it makes you a good match for your new employer.
  3. Edit your resume. You can be authentic while choosing which areas of your background to highlight or downplay. Simplify your language and omit irrelevant certifications and awards.
  4. Suggest staying power. Many HR departments will wonder how long you’ll stick around before finding a more attractive opportunity. Assure them that they’re not wasting their resources. Spell out your desire for a position with long term possibilities.
  5. Compromise on compensation. Similarly, there may be concerns about your salary requirements. Let them know that you’re flexible, even if that means taking a significant cut compared to your previous earnings.
  6. Consult your network. Do you have contacts who are familiar with the organization or prominent in the industry? They may be willing to give you valuable information and recommend you as a candidate worth hiring.

Interviewing for Jobs When You’re Overqualified

 

Congratulations on getting this far in the process. Now, you can sell yourself to your potential employer, so they’ll see your capabilities as an asset rather than an obstacle.

 

Try these techniques:

 

  1. Show enthusiasm. Being arrogant or demanding will make a poor impression. Let employers know that you’re excited about the possibility of working with them and eager to make a genuine contribution.
  2. Describe tasks. Be specific when you’re discussing your past responsibilities and how they correspond to your new role. Show employers that you understand their expectations and feel comfortable with them.
  3. Explore growth potential. Some companies may be open to upgrading a position for a candidate who can take on additional responsibilities. Listen to their needs so you can propose appropriate solutions. Maybe you can generate additional income or train and mentor other team members.
  4. Reassure rivals. What if your new boss has less experience than you or seems to view you as unwelcome competition? Tell stories that show you value learning from others and can take direction.
  5. Try it out. Many companies want a new hire to stay on the payroll so they can recoup their investment. However, there are also situations where a shorter time frame may be mutually beneficial. You might work on one project on a contract basis and see where the relationship goes from there.
  6. Stay positive. Job hunting is often filled with rejections, whether you’re overqualified or struggling to gain experience. Seek support from family, friends, and job clubs. Take care of your mental and physical health. Remember that your efforts will pay off if you persevere.

 

Be prepared to dispel misperceptions and doubts when an employer says you’re overqualified. Find a company that will appreciate your potential and give you the opportunity to take on new challenges.

And, if you’d like some help with finding some opportunities you may be qualified for, check our Job Search Engine.

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Say Goodbye to 2020 and Ring In the New Year the Right Way – Safely

The New Year holiday is just days away. Have you decided what you’ll be doing?

With the old year on the way out and a New Year coming in, it’s important that you celebrate in moderation and follow the guidelines to help prevent the prewar of COVID-19. It’s great to have fun, and there are plenty of safe things you can do to start the New Year out right. Strive to help your family and friends have a fun, safe New Year, as well.

Consider these options for safely ringing in the New Year with pizzazz:

  1. Rather than hosting a party for your friends and family members – join the new craze and do it on Zoom, or another platform like Facebook Group Chat, Skype, or FaceTime group calls. When you have everyone get together online, they’ll avoid being out where there are drunk drivers and other hazards. Keep them safe by keeping them off the road and enjoying a great time with you. If your guests drink, all the more reason for them not to even worry about driving, so they won’t be drinking and then driving home. You’ll all be happier for it in the morning, safe and sound! Who would have thunk you could make you a new work at home skills for a party!?
  2. Volunteer somewhere ONLINE  There are a lot of people who are less fortunate than you. You can do something nice for them by just being there and showing them that they matter. One example is the Crisis Textline. This will start the New Year out with warm feelings for both of you!
  3. Donate to a favorite charity in lieu of spending money on something frivolous to bring in the New Year. You can have a quiet night in. You’ll feel good in the morning and someone else will benefit from your generosity.
  4. Figure out your goals and plans for the New Year. Preparing a budget, making a “bucket list” or spending time in quiet contemplation are all great ways to start the New Year out right without a lot of money, effort, or anxiety. 

Usually there’s nothing wrong with going out on New Year’s Eve, but that’s one night in which it’s far safer to stay home. And, with the current state of affairs it’s even wiser. And your children or friends will thank you for simply being there with them. Reminiscing with friends about the great times you’ve had together can help you look forward to what the New Year will bring.


The New Year Awaits You

One good reason to have a safe New Year’s Eve is that the New Year is waiting for you! Start it with energy and vitality by making safe choices that leave you ready for a fresh start. Start the New Year with enthusiasm for all it has to offer you and joy for the fact that you’re still around to experience more of what life has to offer.


When you allow the good things of life into your heart, it’s much easier to move forward as challenges arise. Even the happiest people struggle sometimes, but being well-prepared for everything means that you’ll have a much higher chance of staying happy and moving into the New Year with grace, hope and positive expectancy.

If you find yourself making a new job your New Year’s resolution, check out our search engine.

 

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College – 8 Alternatives You Want to Know About

Go to school, get good grades, attend university, all so you can get the “good job”! Yeah… whatever!

Even before COVID-19 took 2020 off the rails, the current employment landscape no longer requires the traditional four year college degree to be successful. And let’s face it, going to college isn’t for everyone. It’s still possible to land a successful career path without spending the time and money to get a four-year undergrad degree. 

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), during the period between January and October of 2019, 66.2% of the 3.2 million 16 to 24-year-olds who graduated high school were enrolled in a college or university. That’s a fairly large number, but only a little more than half. Which means the remaining ones who weren’t enrolled in higher education is also a large number. 

If the whole idea of chasing an advanced degree for another four years isn’t your bag, then have a look at these alternatives.

Get a job

OK… let’ s get the obvious one out of the wayt. A significant number of career tracks don’t require any kind of degree at all—and many of them pay quite well. And since you don’t have to spend a penny on higher education for them, they’re even more attractive. Just a few of the options that you may not have considered: physical trainer, loan officer, insurance sales are all options straight out of high school. That’s not to say you won’t need some training or certification, none of which will take four years, and you’ll likely get paid to do it!

Seek out an apprenticeship or fellowship. 

Getting paid to get entry level real-world experience is perhaps the biggest appeal of getting a fellowship or apprenticeship position. They are an excellent way to kick start launching your career path. At a minimum, they’ll give you an idea of what working that field will look like if you decide to pursue it long term. Two resources that can help get you started are the U.S. Department of Labor website, apprenticeship.gov where you can learn more about apprenticeship programs for a wide range of occupations. Another option is profellow.com, which is a database of more than 1,300 fellowships from around the world. 

Volunteering

There are a myriad of options to volunteer, no further away than a quick web search. Most nearly any organization that you’re a good fit with will be glad to have you. While you’re volunteering, not only will you get the emotional satisfaction of giving back to the community, you might even discover some hidden talents you never knew you had. 

Enroll in community college

Here’s an idea… it’s possible to land a position with a six-figure salary with a two-year associate’s degree from a community college. Now that your interest is piqued…it’s true! A two-year degree and training at the Federal Aviation Administration academy can lead you to a position as an air traffic controller. The median wage for them is about $120,000 according to info from the BLS. A solid position for a short-term investment, that won’t break the bank in college tuition. 

Monetize a hobby

Something you’re already passionate about, a hobby or something you’re interested in to an even deeper level, can turn into a full-time money making career for you. This has become quite popular as the Internet has opened up so many opportunities.It has also served to level the playing field for a lot of people like artists, musicians, and photographers. You could even take to the level of launching an actual company.

Join the military

Statistics from Military.com show about 180,000 american young people enlist for active duty in the U.S. military each year. The bare minimum requirements are a high school diploma or equivalency (GED) and passing a physical examination. There are also a wide range of career options in the military beyond the obvious combat related positions, everything to support them is also available. Finance, supply and logistics, medical, equipment maintenance and logistics…the list goes on and on. All of these fields are available in all six branches of the military, the Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard and Space Force. 

Go to a trade school

You’re not really into the whole suit-and-tie, carrying a brief case idea? Blue-collar jobs are a great alternative to the traditional college route. A trade school can be a great option to enter a solid, professional track. Electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, industrial inspectors or a long list of other options can be reached within a year and allow you to get started quickly. 

Take a gap year

Actually deciding to take some time off before entering the workforce can make you more attractive to a potential employer. Gaining the street and life experience from traveling the world and learning about other cultures can be a powerful asset. Check for yourself at the American Gap Association. They’re a non-profit that researches the impact and before of young people taking a gap year. An overwhelming number who did report that they acquired skills to help them succeed in their chosen field, made a significant impact or helped them decide what field they wanted to pursue.

If you need some help looking for some work options, check our search engine. 

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Education: Is a two-year degree enough?

Education remains a  significant concern in today’s world, even for the new generation. Let’s explore the value of a two year degree program in the market!

Most college students are concerned about further education and choosing a degree is the most confusing thing. An endless list of degrees is available in the market, which is sub-categorized into two major categories. One of them is an associate degree program, and the other is a bachelor’s degree program. The significant difference between these two categories is that an associate degree is for two years, and a bachelor’s degree is for four years.

The biggest confusion is whether the students should choose an associate degree program or a bachelor’s degree program. And if the students apply for an associate degree program, will it be  financially prudent or not. Here’s a little guide for people who want to know if a two years degree has any value in the market or not. Without any further delay, let’s have a look!

Career-focused degree programs:

A good thing about this two-year degree program is that these degrees are the best for career-focused students. The students whoVarying levels of education are acceptable in the job market want to step into the market just after completing their education should select a two years degree program. You can confidently step into the market, having skills in your hand. So, if you choose career-focused two years degree programs, you can serve well in the market just after completing your education.

Less expensive education:

Another benefit of choosing a two-year degree program is that you don’t have to spend money lavishly to get admission in the four-year degree program. These two years degree programs are less expensive as compared to four years degrees. So, if your budget is less, you can afford an extended degree, you can apply for a two years degree. You can early complete your studies and start your professional career.

Shortcut to career after education:

The best thing about a two years degree is that you can easily step into the professional market after acquiring skills for two years. Call it a shortcut to your professional career if you want, because you don’t have to wait for four years to complete your degree and then start your career. In this way, it is the best option for people who want to begin their jobs to support their families quickly financially.

Limited fields:

The one thing that you have to keep in mind is that a two-year degree has only limited fields. The following is the list that you can apply for in a two years degree program.

  • English composition
  • Natural science
  • Social and behavioral science
  • History and government
  • Humanities
  • Ethnic studies
  • Communication
  • Computer sciences

With some minor changes, almost all institutes prefer these subjects to add to the associate degree program list. If you want to do any of these courses, you should apply for an associate degree program. Otherwise, if you want to be an engineer or doctor, you can’t make it happen with an associate degree program.

Last words:

These are some of the best factors you want to keep in mind when you want to select two years of degree for your future studies. And it goes without saying, one of the most important things that you must not take for granted is that no matter what your education’s duration is if you don’t take it seriously, you can’t make it work for you.

Your dedication to your education is something that will take you to the heights of success. So, one can’t say that a two year degree has no value in the market because the fact is that there are significant positions for associate graduates. Don’t look down upon a two-year degree program because many people in the market are proof that a two-year degree program is of great importance!

If you’d like some help with finding some opportunities, check our Job Search Engine.

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What if your politics conflict with your boss?

What if you and your boss don’t see eye to eye when it comes to politics?

Like oil and water… 

Discussing politics in the workplace is not generally a good practice. Unless of course you actually work in politics. But that’s another story. Just in case you do fall on the opposite side of  the political views held by the higher-ups, here are a few tips to help you steer clear of any pitfalls.

It’s not entirely out of the question  that your boss’s political views clash with yours. But you know what the important thing is? The significant thing is how you deal with the situation when your boss has some political views contrary to yours. However, it isn’t highly recommended that you share your political opinions at the workplace. But anyhow, you need to know about it to efficiently tackle the condition where politics tries to collide with your career. We are here to give you some pieces of advice that you should follow to calm your boss down when politics ignites the fire between you and your boss. Without any further delay, let’s have a look!

Stay away from contradictions of politics:

The best practice to avoid any mishap in the workplace is to keep yourself away from any statements and discussions that can lead to contentious exchanges in the first place. It is totally okay to have some opposite political views to your boss. Still, we recommend you not to be a part of such discussions in which politics are being discussed. Don’t let your personal views hurt anyone, and don’t let anyone else’s political views hurt your emotions. And the best way to avoid it is to avoid conversations where politics is the topic of discussion.

Be patient while discussing political topics:

Sometimes, a situation comes up and you just want to explode with a response to prove your views right. But that’s the time when you have to be patient. You always have to keep one thing in mind that you are an employee. It can be harmful to your career if you have a conflict with your boss. So, no matter what the situation is, you have to be patient so that your politics can never be a hurdle for your promotion.

Mind your manners:

Communication is the only way to win the heart or to lose it. Keep a thing in mind that a successful career depends on better communication. You must have the guts to deliver your point of view in such a way that no one can object to it. You don’t need to politics at work can be a bad ideaquote great men’s sayings. But i helps to have facts and actual data to prove your point. Don’t add fuel to the fire by adding rude and impudent statements about your boss’s favorite political leader; instead, you should share your views in a better way and accept their rights of having contrary political views.

Recognize your position at the workplace:

If you want to avoid any conflict with your boss at the workplace, don’t forget it’s still work. Keep one thing in mind that only some close employees may be allowed to discuss politics with their boss. If you don’t stand in that close employee’s list, you may just want to  avoid discussing politics at work altogether. It is natural to have contrary views about politics. Common sense says keep quiet at first. So, think before engaging your mouth. And if you see the situation getting worse, just leave the discussion on a happy note.

 

And just in case you’d like some help with finding some opportunities, check our Job Search Engine.

 

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Training should not be just for onboarding

When a new employee is hired consists of an introductory phase which we usually call onboarding. Although it varies from highly organized events over a number of days, to the old “you’re hired” after being thrown into a trial-by-fire situation. Everyone experiences some kind onboarding. The key is whether or not an individual employee understands what their onboarding orientation is. And more importantly, it’s important that they actually receive it. 

During this time, new employees learn about the job requirements, about individual responsibilities of the job and in a greater sense about being a member of the organization. A bond between the company and employee is developed that is very good for a positive working environment. This bond needs to grow and flex according to workplace trends. Always remember that training should not be just for onboarding.

Likewise in technical and regulated fields, the ongoing training is most likely a compliance issue. Falling out of compliance can jeopardize licenses, and have a cascading negative effect on your business. Customer facing and service sectors also benefit from ongoing training as the skills and techniques used for interacting with customers are perishable and can also affected by market trends. 

Training:

You should train the employee according to workplace trends by following the suggestions:

Hire those managers who have ability to engage new employees.

Communicate the company’s core values, strategies and development plans

Develop strong connections between new employees and old employees.

If there is no proper orientation, then employees must figure out the work themselves. If they will face any problem, then they must resolve their issues without any help and support. Consistent compliance and other training are essential

Purpose of training:

All the major tasks of the job are covered by training. The overall main purposes of training include: 

Clear explanation and demonstration of techniques and procedures for completing assigned tasks.

Reviews and demonstrates the use of technologies and other equipment related to their job.

Alternatively, onboarding is all about interacting with other coworkers, management team and other staff. 

Both training and onboarding are important for the new employees.

First day on the job:

Everybody feels nervous when they go for an interview and also when they start their job. The first day of the job is also stressful and you feel anxious that how will you adjust in the new environment, how will be the workplace trends, how he will face new people on that job, how will he adopt the policies for a productive work and what will happen with his new expectations. All these queries will be vanished with the help of training and onboarding. These tactics will make him comfortable to work in that peaceful environment.

Benefits:

The benefits of employee training are: 

Boost the confidence and satisfaction of the new employees

An increase in motivation and morale among coworkers

Provides increased efficiency that provide overall large scale benefits to the company

Increase the working capacity of employees so they can easily adopt new technologies and methods

The image of a company will also be enhanced by ethical training

The manager should also train them to avoid sexual harassment 

 

Objectives:

New employees will be able to learn and update skills, abilities and other job –related knowledge.

The manager should bring about a change in the attitude of new workers towards other coworkers and company.

Employees will be self-determined to achieve their target even at any cost.

 

Conclusion:

For specific positions, thorough onboarding is also crucial but not more than training. Training and onboarding will be very helpful for the growth of employees in all aspects. If you want to know more about “training should not be just for onboarding”. It’s for the overall long term success of each employee. 

 

If you’re in the market for new opportunities, check our own Job Search Engine

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Interview for Admin Support…Ready?

Can you pass this one question quiz? 

Interviews happen everyday in a variety of settings. Think about this, though. Which employees are the hardest working multitaskers, making sure executives know where they need to be for their next meeting, keep stock closets full, invoices processed on time and making sure that the workspace generally runs smoothly?

The answer: if you said administrative support staff… Congratulations! You nailed it!

Because these admin support positions are so critical employers usually have extremely high expectations for candidates who apply for these positions. Don’t worry after tweaking your resume for an admin position hiring manager won’t be able to turn you down as long as you can answer these five questions.

 

Question: What do you do to stay organized?

Why they ask:

Any administrative support position needs to have highly organized people to fill these roles. If you can’t organize your own schedule, how will you keep your boss organized and on time?

What you say: 

You should be specific. Talk about managing your workspace and what systems you use to support that. Period what messaging in Calendar system do you use do you have a dedicated space for pending projects how do you keep your workspace physically clean and organized? showing the hiring manager how you’ve mastered the systems can make you much more attractive as a candidate.

 

Question: how do you manage stress?

Why they ask:

This is one of the more difficult areas to master. Juggling assignments one at a time and keeping cool or an absolute must to be successful in the administrative space. Prospective employers want to make sure you have strategies in place to manage job demands without caving in when the pressure is on.

What you say:

Lead with an example of past performance under pressure with a previous position. Here’s an example: “I got a frantic call from an executive one day, requiring me to drop everything and handle a change. The solution to this problem was communication… once I had the other managers on board and worked some extra hours I was able to meet his deadline without falling behind.“

 

Question: What are your strongest computer skills?

 

Why they ask:

It’s basically a fork on completion you’ll be using a computer most of the day, and it won’t be for social media. Diane Crompton, career coach and author of Find a Job Through Social Networking says, “Employers want to see that you’re current with administrative technology.” Some companies may even want you to take competency or skills tests for certain programs. 

During an admin support interview, be prepared to share your level of software proficiency.

What you say:

One of the best ways to show your technical prowess is to use appropriate language during the interview process. Use specific terms relating to the systems you’re familiar with. For example with XL talk about creating charts formulas macros, etc. as you discuss those skills, include metrics or benchmarks that quantify your achievements using those platforms. 

 

Question why do you want the administrative assistant position?

Why they ask:

In general, admin work can be quite tedious for many people. However, many enjoy it. Hiring managers just want to be sure it’s a genuine interest not a search for something “easier”.

What you say:

Hopefully it’s painfully obvious you can’t say something like “Because I need a job.” When you get this question the best approach is to talk about while you enjoy the support role and administrative work. Give me details about specific aspects of the job. Use a what and why approach if you like doing data entry mentioned that your detail oriented and enjoy project-based work. if you don’t say so, they’ll never know!

Question: Can you share an example of dealing with a difficult client or customer?

Why they ask: 

Many times support chops are internal positions, unlike receptionists, who interact with customers and clients. Hiring managers want to know how you manage interpersonal relationships, and how you avoid conflict.

What you say: 

Here’s the big flag! Any you encounter question that starts with “Tell me about a time when…“ , that’s a behavioral question. Employers like to use past experiences and behavior as an indicator of how you perform in the future. When you get these questions, it’s important to have a good story about an experience where you used communication and professional composure to respond to the situation. 

Another important detail questions to frame how the issue arose, then tell the story about how you handled it.

You got this!

Admin support staff to a large variety of work in their positions, so it makes sense that the interviews for those positions touch on a White variety of skills sets. You may get some of the answers more quickly than others but don’t sweat it. Another thing you may consider, is brushing up on soft skills as well.

 

If you’re looking for a new admin support or other opportunity, check our search engine for job seekers.

 

 

 

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Vacation Days…Why You Should Want To Take Them!

It’s commonly understood that taking vacation days provides a significant mental health benefit.

But does vacation also allow us to better develop our work lives? A study published in the Journal of Vocational Behavior finds that all of that is true, and that vacation is really good for our health.

 

Research shows

Researchers ran a study involving 120 students who completed self-reports of their mood and general well-being. Half of the participants went on vacation the first week of the semester, while the other half remained in class. On their vacations, the participants were told to eat and rest regularly throughout the weekend, and to exercise and relax as much as they could over the weekend.

 

The researchers found that this schedule improved their mood and well-being dramatically. Participants who used vacation days had fewer bad moods and lower levels of depression than those who stayed in class. They were also more likely to be engaged with their studies on their vacation, and they had higher happiness levels and a healthier overall lifestyle.

 

Laws and employee benefits should encourage short term vacation to allow us to rebuild our mental, physical, and social health from a work-based perspective vacation days spent anywhere, like camping can be beneficial

 

Why does such a simple change have such a dramatic effect on mental well-being? What else might be involved? And what might other workplace policies do to promote healthier days off?

 

Practices that build on the previous steps of the vacation schedule could be key to promoting healthier days off. First, the study members observed that students who went on vacation were more likely to take physical exercise while they were gone. Many young people are uncomfortable taking time off, particularly in the summer, so letting them come back to school after their long-planned vacations would allow them to take physical exercise and socialize before they even return.

 

Vacation Days just make sense…

Second, there is evidence that having paid holidays encourages employees to take their vacation days more often than employees without paid holidays. This, in turn, may lead to an easier transition from school to work, and it could also contribute to maintaining or boosting their mental health and well-being in the days afterward.

 

Finally, sharing a “work-based” vacation schedule with employees could also make it easier for employers to include policies about clean, healthy food at work. Focusing on having healthy days off as part of a broader “work-life balance” would allow companies to promote healthy choices, encourage employees to get food at work, and offer employee and management feedback on employee behaviors that promote healthy eating and exercise.

 

If you’re looking for a new opportunity, check our search engine for job seekers.

 

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