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A Virtual Assistant Can Change Your Business

Modern Rules for Working With a Virtual Assistant

 

Virtual assistants are one of the relatively few industries that have benefited from the pandemic. While restaurants and exercise studios shuttered their doors, remote work grew by leaps and bounds.

 

One poll found that 70% of virtual assistants reported an increase in inbound inquiries, and 45% increased their hourly workload in 2020. Labor statistics showed a 41% increase in the hiring of virtual assistants through offshore agencies, and many agencies increased their staff to keep up with demand.

 

If you’re exploring remote support, you have more options now. However, you may need guidance to sort through your choices. Brush up on the modern rules for working with a virtual assistant.

 

Hiring a Virtual Assistant:

 

  1. Consult an agency. Hiring decisions can have a big impact on your business, so you may feel more comfortable using an agency if you lack experience. For a fee, they’ll find appropriate candidates and conduct interviews.
  2. Do it yourself. On the other hand, you can save money by managing the process yourself. Browse business publications and websites for tips on writing a job posting, interviewing online, and checking references.
  3. Use online platforms. Many virtual assistants offer their services through companies like Upwork and Fiverr. You may need to sift through hundreds of applicants, but you can find help quickly when you need it.
  4. Search locally. Your virtual assistant may live on another continent or down the street. Use local job boards and word of mouth if you want someone close to home.
  5. Think ahead. However you hire, keep your future needs in mind. Look for candidates who may be able to take on more responsibility and help you grow your business.

 

Working with a Virtual Assistant:

 

  1. Clarify expectations. Misunderstandings can arise among colleagues in the same office. Imagine what it’s like working with someone without any face-to-face contact. Be specific about required tasks and goals. Set boundaries related to spending limits and confidential information.
  2. Document procedures. How-to manuals and video tutorials can explain routine duties and complex assignments. Ask your virtual assistant to write up any new responsibilities to keep your library up to date.
  3. Invest in tools. Technology will make collaboration easier. Shop for software that lets you edit documents and manage projects.
  4. Communicate regularly. Staying in touch may require a more deliberate strategy when you don’t run into each other in the hallways and breakroom. Schedule effective one-on-one meetings at least once a week. Discuss the best way to reach you with urgent and nonurgent communications.
  5. Encourage questions. New hires may feel pressured to appear competent. Let them know that you’re happy to answer questions when anything is unclear.
  6. Provide feedback. Constructive criticism is essential for learning and high performance. Make your comments prompt, specific, and actionable.
  7. Start small. Virtual assistants need onboarding too. If time allows, introduce them gradually to their new role and help them to connect with the bigger picture. Make their first assignment something simple that they can excel at.
  8. Respect their time. Maybe your virtual assistant has limited availability or you’re one of several clients. Make the most of your time together by being prepared for the hours they spend with you.
  9. Build morale. Team spirit has more to do with the quality of your relationship rather than sharing the same business address. Create a welcoming environment and promote two-way conversations. Give your new assistant their own company email and send them a coffee cup with your logo.

 

Your new virtual assistant could save you time and enable you to focus on tasks that maximize your strengths. Make your relationship happy and productive by choosing an outstanding candidate for the job and helping each other to succeed.

If you’re looking for something more traditional, or unique for yourself, check our Job Search Engine.

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Workplace Diversity Pros and Cons

Is Workplace Diversity Worth It? Here Are A Few Pros and Cons.

Right now the workforce in the United States includes more than 25 million people who are foreign-born. And, in less than 30 years some data suggest that the United States will become a truly pluralistic nation with no single segment of the population holding a majority. This is the face of what is to come, and if you expect to succeed and compete on this new playing field, you and your company need to have a good look at the pros and cons of workplace diversity.

Pro: Financial Results Improvement

Many studies have shown that companies with higher degrees of diversity on their teams tend to show more profitability than others. Publicly traded companies were the focus of a report by consulting firm McKinsey & Company in 2015. Most notable was 35 percent more likelihood of financial success by those companies with the most epic and racial diversity in their management structure. 

Pro: Competitive on a Global Scale

Foreign owned companies employ a large percentage of the overall American workforce. In today’s global economy the Fortune 500 list of companies consistently features foreign owned companies near the top. To effectively compete on the global stage, companies must seek out diverse workforces who mirror the diverse population and points of view they serve. To effectively compete on the global stage, companies must seek out diverse workforces who mirror the diverse population in points of view they serve.

 

Pro: Decision-Making Based on Facts

An often overlooked by-product of diverse organizations is that they tend to focus on facts in their decision making process.  examining and re-examining facts, in order to remain objective, these groups shy away from old ways of thinking. This results in better decision making for their company. Homogeneous groups have more difficulty identifying biases than their non-homogeneous counterparts, who are able to move past bias in the business decision process. 

Pros: Innovation and Creativity

An old saying goes something like repeating the same activity over and over will produce the same results. So, in business the same approaches to management sales products and the like will yield the same results, unless something is done to interrupt the pattern. Believe it or not, this is due to a lack of diversity. when a group of people approach challenges or problems from different perspectives however, more creative solutions will develop. Diversity supports market growth and fosters innovation.

 

Advantage: Cross-Cultural Understanding

While “birds of a feather flock together“ may be all warm and fuzzy, as global diversity increases, cross cultural understanding helps create better working conditions and builds international understanding. Instead of sticking to the prejudice and misconceptions which have been prevalent here for, diverse workforces enhance the working environment and improve outward looking results for their organizations.

 

Con: Transitioning Challenges

If the potential benefit of diversification is just making its way into view for your company, you will certainly encounter challenges when creating your new diverse work environment. Older ideas and entrenched habits will certainly present challenges while bringing conflict and increased tension among the team. Clashing cultures may create instances of misunderstanding of meanings. Something may be highly disrespectful to one culture when it is a joke in another. The most important element to launch your venture into workplace diversity is the buy-in of management and a sound educational approach for the rest of the company, in order to be successful.

 

Con: Financial Impact in the Short-Term 

 

You may already have experience in the area of accommodation in the workplace if you’ve been in business for some time. Similar to the way the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) brought a sea of change to many companies with some financial impact, diversity will also require some flexibility and initial cost outlay. Here’s one example; Muslim workers need a space for daily prayer. Transgender or non-binary employees need their own changing and/or restrooms. Simply, as your diversity increases, there may be unanticipated costs along the way. 

 

Even though the transition to creating a more diverse workplace has its challenges, companies across the country and around the world are still making their moves to diversity. In the long run the effort and investment are proving to show their value, while the results provide both financial and moral rewards.

Opportunities with workplace diversity and inclusion in mind are on our Job Search Engine.

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Career Change? 4 Crucial Questions You Should Ask Yourself.

Questions to Ask Yourself When Considering a Career Change

 

When we leave school, college, or university, often we have no idea what we really want. We choose a job or career based on what our parents, friends, or career advisors say.

 

Then, ten years on, we find ourselves in a mediocre situation, with a growing sense of disappointment and dissatisfaction about our work and our place in it. Is it too late to change direction and do something completely new or different?

 

Of course not!

 

Life is changing rapidly and dramatically. New careers, ideas, and opportunities are popping up all the time. Things we would never have thought possible just a few years ago have become household favorites virtually overnight.

 

Who would have thought it was possible for the biggest taxi company in the world to own no taxis? Who would have thought that the biggest online retailer doesn’t have a single product of their own to sell? Who would have thought a whole new industry could be born simply from fast-food delivery?

 

What Do You Want?

 

If you want to change direction, at any age, the most important thing is to discover is what you really want out of life.

  • What interests you?
  • What fascinates you?
  • What do you feel passionate about?

 

Make a list on each of these important issues and see where they overlap or have commonality. Hidden in there somewhere are the basic elements of a complete change of direction for you.

 

When you really dig into your lists, it’s possible to create a basic plan of careers, jobs, and opportunities to explore that can lead you to a life of fulfilment and happiness.

 

If you pursue that path as long as it keeps you happy and fulfilled, you’ll never look back. However, there might well come a day when life changes and/or you change, and it might be time to change direction again. It happens all the time in this rapidly developing world.

 

Exploring the Idea of a Career Change

 

Once you’ve gone through your lists and found some careers that will fulfil your passions and interests, you’ll want to consider other aspects of them, too.

 

Ask yourself these questions:

 

1. Will it make me enough money?

You’ll want to consider how you’ll monetize your interest and what pursuing that aspect will entail for you. Do you want to get a new job in this field? Start your own business?

  • With the advent of social media and internet marketing, it’s possible to reach out to thousands of potential customers or clients all over the world without ever leaving home.
  • The potential of making money is certainly there, but you might need to retrain and learn some new skills to reach out and get it.

2. What will others think of my career change?

This is an age-old question that stops many people from making changes that could change their life for the better, forever. However, keep in mind that all the time that you’re worried about what other people think, say, or do, you’ll never be free.

  • Consider the maxim, “Whatever other people think of me is none of my business.” 
  • We have no way to influence what others think of us other than by setting a good example. Let them think whatever they want while you go out and get things done! Never let those who think it can’t be done interrupt those who are already out there doing it.

3. What am I willing to give up in order to create something really incredible?

Many times, you’ll find that preparing for a new career encroaches on your current life. If this is the case, weigh the costs of time, money, and effort against your current life to help determine which aspect is more important to you.

  • Would you sell your car to fund a program where you could learn new skills and explore new ideas?
  • Would you give up your evenings or your social life to reinvest that time in educating yourself in a completely different career or opportunity?
  • Are you willing to work weekends and evenings to study new concepts, ideas, or strategies?

4. Will I be good enough to make it work?

The very fact that you’re reading this says that you’re searching for change, reassurance about change, and that something is pulling you forward towards change.

  • You already considered that there is more to your life than that which you are currently experiencing, and you want to know what it is and get fully engaged with it, right?
  • Mindset is vitally important. Let your motivation carry you forward. As you take action, a positive mindset will help you overcome any obstacles that may arise.

 

Your life is entirely under your control and what you do with it is your decision alone. Get busy, make some decisions and take action, and keep moving forward with your ideas and intentions.

 

The answers may not come overnight, but as long as you pursue what interests you, fascinates you, and makes you happy, you will find the answers that you seek.

 

Beware of any criticism of your dreams and ideas from anyone you wouldn’t go to for sound advice. After all, opinions are ten a penny. Everyone has them, but opinions are not going to help or support you.

 

Be relentless in your pursuit of happiness and fulfilment. Go at it like your whole life depends on it. Because it does.

 

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

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13 Ways You Can Improve Your Job Search

13 Strategies for Making Your Job Search More Efficient

 

Some things are beyond your control when you’re searching for a job. You wait for companies to call you back, and you compete with other candidates who may have stronger qualifications.

 

However, you can take charge of making your job hunt more efficient. That way you’ll make the process faster and more rewarding, regardless of the state of the economy.

 

The secret is getting organized and taking care of yourself. Use this checklist to work smarter rather than harder while you’re preparing for your next position.

 

Tips for Organizing Your Job Search

 

Careful planning and helpful routines reduce stress and enable you to accomplish more. You’ll maximize the return on your efforts.

 

Try these top tips:

 

  1. Clarify your goals. Charting your career path will help you to understand your values and make sounder decisions. You’ll be able focus your efforts on your top priorities.
  2. Leverage your strengths. Customize your job hunt based on your skills and resources. Maybe you have a powerful alumni network. Maybe you communicate more effectively in writing or on the phone.
  3. Limit your research. You need to know about the companies where you’re applying but ensure that you’re allocating enough time for the rest of your to-do list. You can gather more information if you’re invited to interview.
  4. Polish your writing. Make your applications stand out. Edit your cover letters to match the requirements of each position. Use keywords. Describe your past achievements and what you can offer.
  5. Take advantage of technology. Automate tasks to save time. Email alerts will notify you of new openings, so you can be among the first to apply. Use project management apps to track and evaluate your progress.
  6. Batch similar tasks. Block out time for checking job boards or keeping in touch with network contacts. Activities that require the same thought process usually take less time because your brain doesn’t have to switch gears.
  7. Avoid distractions. Figure out where you may be wasting time. Let your family and friends know the hours when you want to be undisturbed. Set limits on video streaming and internet browsing.
  8. Clear away clutter. Tidy up your environment. Try to cut down on paper documents and develop a filing system that works for you.
  9. Ask for help. Let your family, friends, and colleagues know how they can assist you. Talk with recruiters and consider hiring professional services like resume writing if your own efforts have stalled.

 

Tips for Taking Care of Yourself During Your Job Search

 

It’s difficult to be productive when you’re anxious and depressed. Investing in yourself will keep your energy levels up and help you to make a more positive impression when you’re interviewing.

 

These strategies will help:

 

  1. Sleep well. Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day even if you’re unemployed. If anxious thoughts make you toss and turn, get out of bed and do something boring until you feel drowsy.
  2. Eat healthy. Fuel up with nutritious meals and snacks. If you’re watching your grocery spending, stock up on beans, lentils, and oats. Frozen produce often costs less than fresh and can be just as healthy.
  3. Exercise regularly. Staying active will give you more energy, enhance your mood, and help you sleep at night. Go for a run or jump rope. Do stretches and body weight exercises at home.
  4. Manage stress. Take time to relax and have fun. Call a friend or a community hotline if you’re struggling with difficult emotions.

 

A long job hunt can take its toll on your self-esteem and bank account. Being efficient will help you to increase your success rate and move ahead in your career.

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

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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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Cannabis Jobs Are Now in 35 States

When considering what’s on the horizon for new jobs in the U.S., only the industrial or healthcare sectors come to mind.

But there’s a seeming darkhorse. The real and one of the biggest booms of the time is happening in the cannabis market. Cannabis jobs on the rise in the U.S. is not really a surprise. Truth be told, so many states are legalizing it. Five more in the November 2020 election. New Jobs are created when a change like this occurs, and instantly there are more opportunities for jobless people because a newly emerging industry like cannabis is going to put a lot of startups into significant positions.

Legalization of cannabis:

In America, only two-third of the states have legalized cannabis use. Still, it is the fastest-growing job market in the USA. Cannabis directly involves more than 210k people, and when those who are working or are related to the job market indirectly, the figure crosses 300,000. More than 44% increase was seen in New jobs last year, and it is expected to more and more with time. 

These are the actual numbers of 2019 new jobs count by cannabis information hub Leafly. We can imagine how fast-growing and how important this job market is for unemployed people. The concentration of cannabis jobs is higher and those states which have legalized the use of cannabis for both medicinal purposes and adult use. 

New Jobs opportunities cannabis market holds for Job seekers

As the stats show that it is a very booming time for the cannabis market, new startups are need of experts of various fields. If you do it by the rules, you can also make a promising career out of it. The cannabis market offers a lot of new jobs, and any job seeker can explore these newly emerging job opportunities.

These new jobs offer the opportunity for technical and professional workers like accountants, marketers, lab workers and tax experts. The median annual salary for these professionals is higher at $58,511, which is 11% higher than the average overall yearly median wage in the U.S. 

Even when the scheduling status at the federal level is one which is right next to the heroin and other drugs, it still is the market that is booming and creating new jobs. In 2018 according to statistics of Leafly, the legal sales and distribution increased by 34% in the U.S. It also shows how much potential the cannabis market holds and how big it will get is still not in the picture. 

Not just highly skilled professionals and top technicians are needed by the industry. More people are needed to work as delivery drivers, security and other positions. People with all education levels can find a job in the industry. A law stops the movement of jobs out of the states. It is considered a benefit of cannabis jobs because it also prevents cannabis from crossing state lines.

What’s next 

The stats are showing that the cannabis market growth is not stopping anytime soon. It is bound to create new cannabis jobs for some time. In the U.S. not long ago the cannabis use was illegal, and now 35 states allow cannabis for medicinal purposes. Some of those and others allow for adult recreational use as well. With new needs come those who fulfil those needs, and with it, the need for workforce grows. It eventually leads to new jobs creation. The stats are promising for the cannabis market. Those who understand the potential are making investments on a higher level. They will eventually reap the benefits of this rapidly growing market, maybe sooner than later. It’s all in the numbers. The cannabis market is expected to reach $35 Billion by 2025.

If you’d like some help with finding some opportunities, 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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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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Seasonal Employment Options Are Still Available

With the right timing and a little sleuthing, you can find great seasonal employment to add some extra bucks to your holiday cash.

Even with COVID a variety of seasonal jobs are still available. The standard retail jobs may not be available, but tax season is just around the corner and other opportunities are out there.

You just need to be prepared and be professional. A lot of companies will have virtual recruiting events. Make sure you test your Internet connection and lighting and other details to make yourself look good on a video interview. You’ll need to make sure you have employment documentation, I-9 certification and the like to show that you’re able to work legally in the US. Another tip is don’t waste your time applying if you’re not going to treat it like a real job. Just because it’s a temp position doesn’t mean the employer will accept a half-effort. 

In fact, many of the seasonal jobs that are available at this time of year may start as part-time, but turn into full-time positions. So, make sure you dress professionally and appropriately just as though you’re interviewing for any other full-time position.

Make sure you know what you want in terms of schedule salary and work duties. You also need to make sure you’re able to articulate what you can offer the employer. Make sure you ask about the potential of converting to permanent.

Be flexible

A great way to stand out and put yourself at the top of the list is to make sure that you present yourself as being flexible and willing to work at what’s available. Being heavy-handed about a desired schedule will probably leave you with as many jobs as you walk into the interview with. This time of year is naturally busy so there may be multitasking and the ability to switch gears on the fly.

Several industries are hiring at this time of year. Here are just a few ideas to consider:

Retail —

Retails positions might include cashiers retail managers floor associates and now with Covid new positions like curbside pick up and store sanitizers.

Customer service

With more and more shopping being done online a lot of e-commerce companies I looking to boost their customer service staff. Many of these positions are remote work from the get-go.

Delivery companies

This time of year is always a good bet that UPS and FedEx will ramp up with people to help with the increasing package volume. It’s a fair bet that you can add Amazon to that list as well. In some cases you may not even need a drivers license.

Warehouse stocking and packaging

All of those online orders need to be picked and packed by someone so distribution centers and fulfillment jobs are another Seasonal employment jobs are out thereoption moving into the holidays.

HR administration and tax preparation

If jumping in the trenches isn’t your thing a lot of places may be looking for help with the hiring of temporary staff. And, since it’s the end of November already the beginning of 2020 tax season is just around the corner as well. Tax preparers will need help answering calls scheduling appointments data entry completing paperwork the other administrative assignments.

Temp Work

Temp work can be interesting because often times it’s used to fill in for employees were on vacation or otherwise unable to work. So, the seasonal employees are kind of like the second string to jump in at a moments notice. One cool thing about working as a temp is the potential variety of workplace locations.

Even if you’re not looking for something that can translate to long term, there are some great seasonal employment opportunities available. A little time invested could yield some substantial holiday cash.

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

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Stop Asking These 10 Questions At Work!

Everybody agrees that building great relationships with coworkers and networking is a great thing to do. 

It’s also valuable to have a degree of candor when doing so… But you need to practice self censorship as well. One easy, low-hanging fruit in this area is knowing what’s not OK when asking ice-breaker questions, or that quick chat in line at the coffee shop. Make it a point to avoid these 10 questions at work. A little forethought can save you some headaches later.

 

“Wow, are you pregnant?”

One would think that common sense might prevail in this situation but you never know. Especially at work, this can be a really difficult situation. Mainly because out of the two possible outcomes neither of them will be good. It’s quite simple actually, if that coworker isn’t pregnant you’ve just insulted her by saying she’s overweight. If she is in fact pregnant, she may not be ready to announce it to everyone. So perhaps it’s best to avoid it. Seriously though, coworkers reproductive plans are none of your business anyway, so along those lines don’t ask if they’re planning to have kids either

 

“Have you lost a little weight?”

 

If one of your colleagues has in fact slimmed down, this may seem like an all right question. However, you may not know the full story behind their weight loss. A very common and not unlikely example is because they are ill, which means you’ve just put them in a very uncomfortable position. Leave it alone.

 

“Are you feeling tired?”

This one applies more to people you might not know as well as others. This one should certainly be avoided as an icebreaker… Nobody likes to hear that they look exhausted or overworked. This can often be interpreted as looking old and haggard. Stick to compliments.

 

“Mike in shipping is an idiot, don’t you think?”

While you may be great friends and talk about everything under the sun at the water cooler venting your frustrations about other people in the workplace can result in much bigger problems than you probably imagined. The biggest one is it could get right back to the person you’re speaking about. Best advice, vent about work to people outside of work.

 

“What do you make, anyway?”

Many companies actually have a policy about this.Many companies actually have a policy about this. In Asian cultures where many workers’ salaries are common knowledge and often published as a publicly available wage scale. Discussing compensation in the U.S and other western cultures is generally frowned upon.

 

“What’s your religion?”

If you haven’t heard it before, the two cardinal sins for conversation at work our religion and politics. Few topics are more polarizing than these two. Both of these topics If you haven’t heard it before, these topics are often linked together in some way. So best to give a wide berth to these questions at work. And besides, there’s so much more to talk about!

 

“Any good dates recently?”

It may be innocent enough, or even meant as a joke. Regardless of your intentions the sex or dating life of coworkers should be considered off-limits look in the mirror and picture yourself being asked the same question.

 

“When are you and [significant other] going to get married?”

Who says everyone wants to get married? If a particular coworker doesn’t want to marry their significant other it stands to reason they don’t need to be reminded that they haven’t made plans yet. And, you may have no idea if their relationship is even healthy.

 

“What’s your tattoo mean?”

Current estimate show that four and 10 people have a tattoo. Of those, a Pew Research Center survey says nearly 75% say they hide them at work.Current estimate show that for a tattoos tend to be very personal. So even if it’s visible, that coworker may not want to share the story behind it. Stick to compliments, and if they want to share, they will.

 

“How old are you, again?”

OK so you’re the worst judge of age on the planet. However, asking someone their age can have serious repercussions. A recent survey conducted by AARP showed some kind of age discrimination at work in nearly 2/3 of workers age 45 and older.  Age related questions at work could get you in hot water with HR and an age discrimination claim. Steer clear.

 

If you’re still looking for opportunities for yourself or someone else, check our Career Search Engine.

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