Movin' On Up

Good Ole’ Fashion Job Search Tips

With fast-paced technology and social media sites exploding all around us, it’s no wonder job seekers spend the majority of their time submitting résumés online and using networking sites such as LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook to conduct their job search.

As a professional in the communications world, I understand first-hand the importance of social media and the purpose it provides job seekers, employers, and businesses across the world. Often, I recommend these vehicles to job seekers who are looking to make connections. Although the web is a very powerful tool, it’s not the only way. My brother reminded me of that just the other day.

After months of searching for jobs online, he finally decided to go back to the basics. He hit the streets with his freshly printed résumé and went door-to-door. One week later, he found a job – not just any job, but a well paying job.

So, what that tells me is that it’s not only important to use the internet and network, but it’s equally important to get out there and hit the streets, going face-to-face with the people who make the hiring decisions.

So, whether you’re from a younger generation or if you’re part of the seasoned workforce, don’t underestimate the power of the good ole’ fashioned job search advice.

1. Update your résumé frequently to highlight your strengths and sell your skills. 
2. Dress for success by putting on your best interview outfit.
3. Make a list of the places you want to submit your résumé to.
4. Call the company you want to work for to inquire about job openings and to get the name of the director of human resources.
5. Hit the streets. Go to each of the places on your list, walk in the front door, and request to speak with the HR director using his or her name. You never know, the front desk receptionist might think you have an appointment, especially if you got a name from an earlier phone call.

If you’re only searching for jobs online – you’re competing with millions of other job seekers. Plus, you might miss out on some job opportunities that aren’t posted online. So, separate yourself from the pack by using some traditional techniques.

Either way, you can get your résumé in their hands with a face-to-face meeting and have a contact person to follow up with. It might not work every time, but hey, it does work. Just ask my brother!

3 Benefits of Getting a Summer Job

Every summer, thousands of people take on summer jobs to generate extra cash. And, this summer is no different. But, earning extra cash isn’t the only benefit of landing a summer job. Check out these three benefits of having summer jobs and start looking today.

1. Possibility of Full-Time Work. According to CareerBuilder’s Annual Summer Job Forecast, 23% of employers plan to hire workers specifically for the summer months. And, of those 23%, nearly 56% of employers said they would consider hiring summer employees for full-time positions later on. So, if you’re looking for continued employment opportunities, working a summer job can help you get your foot in the door.

2. Building Your Résumé. Hiring managers like to see lots of work experience, regardless of industry, on an applicant’s résumé. In addition to the skills you can learn at your summer job, showing a potential employer that you’re versatile, well-rounded, and capable of holding down a job will help you in the interview process.

3. Exploring a Career Path. If you’re undecided about your future, working a summer job in a variety of industries can help you shape your career path. You can experience a variety of environments, positions, and companies that interest you. Summer jobs also give you the opportunity to pursue passions outside of your day-to-day job, and can potentially lead you to your dream job.

Working a summer job can benefit more than just your pocket book, it can benefit your future. So, remember these benefits of a summer job when considering whether or not you should find one. To learn about summer job opportunities near you, contact your local Express office.  

A Social Media Job Primer

There’s no question that social networking sites are growing in popularity over some more traditional methods to connect with old friends, find new friends, search for jobs and establish business contacts. We’ve seen social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn rise in popularity in the past few years. Even U.S. Senators were seen twittering on President Obama’s nationally televised speech.

In our current economy, there’s been a lot on the news about people using social networking sites to find jobs and meet important decision makers in the hiring process. There are countless numbers of networking sites available, and each can help you in different ways. You might be wondering, “which sites are best for my job search?”

To help you figure out which social networking site is best for your job search, here are some benefits of some popular sites.

LinkedIn – Maybe one of the more popular sites to conduct a job search, LinkedIn helps you focus on specific companies and targets your job search. You can learn all you need to know about companies. You can also search the company name to find out who currently works there or was formerly employed by the organization. Building your own professional network on LinkedIn will allow you to learn more about your contacts, communicate with decision makers of companies you’re interested in, and share your own work history online. To get the most out of your job search on LinkedIn, check out Guy Kawasaki’s Ten Ways to Use LinkedIn to Find a Job.

Plaxo – This social network site, popular with post-college professionals, resembles LinkedIn but has some differences. On Plaxo, in addition to a profile with a bio that includes your contact information, you can create a “pulse stream,” a list of the social media sites you’re connected to. Plaxo also has an address book that allows you to keep track of all your contact information and a map showing where your contacts live. It’s partnered with Simply Hired, a job search engine that aggregates all company and job site searches into one convenient place. It also has a calendar function to organize your meetings, events, and tasks. 

Twitter – Twitter allows you to share up-to-date information on what you’re doing in 140 characters or less. You can use this social network to talk directly to hiring managers. Make sure you fill out your profile with information relevant to your job history and mention the types of positions you’re looking for. Then, use the link section to promote your other social networking site such as your LinkedIn profile, online résumé, professional blog, or online portfolio. You can only provide one link, so be selective, and then make sure the page you select has links to all your other relevant professional online links. Because it’s highly specialized, this tool should be used primarily by people who have mastered other social networking sites.

Facebook – Facebook is growing in popularity and can be used to find a job in two main ways: searching the Facebook marketplace and joining groups or fan pages. The Facebook marketplace lists job openings in your network. You will be able to see who listed the job and then message the person directly to submit your résumé. The second way to find jobs on Facebook is to network with people through the groups and fan pages you have joined. Make sure these groups focus on the same interests and industry experience you would like to pursue. Many businesses and organizations have Facebook accounts, making it a little easier for job seekers to get into contact with decision makers and other influential people.

There are plenty more social networking sites available than these, making it a difficult process to choose which site will best benefit your job search. We’ve highlighted some of the most popular – because they are a great way to begin. While you’re building your social network presence, feel free to add Express as a connection on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn Job Search Connection to equip your career and keep you up-to-date on all our job search advice! But remember, simply using these sites alone will not guarantee you a job. Broaden your job search beyond the Internet, network with the people around you, and attend job fairs in your community in addition to online networking for the best results. 

If there are any social networking sites that have been successful at helping you find a job, let us know in the comments section below.

New on the Job and Have Extra Time to Kill?

When you first start a job, you may be anxious to prove that you’ve earned your spot and want to work hard to earn more responsibility. You might even find that you complete your initial tasks quickly and have a lot of spare time on your hands. When that happens, what should you do? Do you sit back and wait for your next project, slow down your pace so it takes you longer to finish, or ask for something new to do? If you ever find yourself in this situation, here are three ways you can effectively use your time at work and prove yourself at your new job.

Offer to help others. If you have some extra time here and there but aren’t consistently without work to do, start by asking if your teammates need help when you find yourself between assignments. You may not know all of the details of the project they’re working on, but you can help out with other tasks, such as filing, answering the phone, or assisting customers, which will give them more time to work on their bigger projects.

Ask for more responsibilities. If you constantly find yourself with extra time on your hands and you’re already comfortable with your initial projects, it may be time to ask for more responsibility. Talk to your supervisor about other tasks or assignments that you could take on as your own. Make sure to discuss how much time you could devote to a new project, what skills you could develop or improve on, and how the team could benefit from you taking on new projects.

Study up. If you’re not quite ready for a new responsibility and your co-workers don’t always have work to share, use your spare time to increase your knowledge of the company and industry you’re working in. If you have access to the internet, you can research the latest news on your company. You can also participate in training the company offers. Learn as much as you can, and pick up as many skills as possible that will help you in your day-to-day job and give you an edge over your competition.

Starting a new job is exciting, but the excitement can quickly wear off if you’re bored or not stimulated at work. Use your enthusiasm to help you improve your skills and further your knowledge by using the most of your downtime at your new job. Don’t waste your time – it will pay off when you earn the respect of your team.

3 Tips to Fit into a New Team at Work

When you work in a team environment, you’re bound to run into many different personality types, but some temperaments don’t always mesh. If you’re new to the job, you might feel overwhelmed trying to fit in and get along with everyone. Here are a few tips to help you deal with different personality types in the workplace.

Recognize individuality – Everyone has their own unique strengths. Get to know each person individually, and discover what makes them tick. Are they passionate about music, animals or protecting the earth? Once you find something in common, you can better relate to that person and engage in conversations with them. Be sure to open up as well. When your co-workers know more about you, they’ll be more likely to start a conversation with you because they can ask about your interests.

Be open-minded – Different people have different ideas to bring to the table. Just because a co-worker’s personality doesn’t initially click with yours doesn’t mean you can’t get along with them in the workplace. You don’t have to hang out with them outside of the office, but you should be able to remain civil and work with them on a daily basis.

Adjust your attitude – If you’re not getting along with your teammates, take a look at yourself. While you can’t change others’ behaviors, you can change your own. This doesn’t require you to change your personality, but it might call for you to adjust your outlook about the person or situation. Put your personal feelings aside, and focus instead on your teammates’ positive contributions to the team. If you want to continue working in a healthy environment or just want to keep your job, it might be time to change your negative attitude into a positive one.

Successful teams work well together, no matter what personality types make up the group. Working with a new team can be challenging, but if you’re open minded and look for the positive traits in others, you’ll be able to adapt and fit in.

Do you find it easy to fit into new teams? How do you handle working with different personalities? Give us your feedback in the comments section below.

3 Ways to Build a Better Relationship with Your Boss

Do you struggle to connect with your boss? If so, you’re not alone. Research shows that a poor relationship with an immediate supervisor is the leading reason people leave their jobs. But, instead of calling it quits at a job you otherwise enjoy, try using three tips to build a better relationship with your boss.

Take Advantage of an Open Door Policy.
Communication problems contribute to the demise of many relationships. If you and your supervisor always seem to be speaking a different language, try increasing the amount of time you spend talking face-to-face. Remember, practice makes perfect and that includes your ability to communicate with your boss. If your boss has an open door policy, pop in every now and then to touch base. For supervisors who aren’t easily accessible, schedule times to meet together on a regular basis. Don’t wait until you have a problem to approach your boss. Instead, make developing a solid, professional relationship with your boss a top priority.

Pitch in to Lighten Your Supervisor’s Work Load.
If your boss is frequently stressed out and buried in work, chances are, they would appreciate it if you offered to help out. While you might assume your boss would ask for help if it they needed it, that’s not necessarily the case. Some people have a difficult time asking others for assistance. By paying attention to your supervisor’s workload and offering to pitch in, you’ll be recognized as a team player who can be counted on.

Be Supportive not Combative.
Even when you disagree with the decisions your boss makes, it’s important to be professional. Remember, it’s not always easy for your boss to make tough calls. You can show respect for your boss by refraining from criticism or gossip. Not only will your boss appreciate your support, but you’ll feel more positive about your relationship when you make an effort to see things from your supervisor’s point of view.

Taking responsibility for your own job satisfaction by focusing on getting along better with your supervisor can vastly improve your outlook. You may be miserable in a job, but unless you take the initiative to correct and communicate the issues, your boss could be clueless. Developing open communication, offering your assistance and being supportive will show your boss that you care about your relationship and your job.

Do you get along with your boss? How do you think you could improve your relationship? Let us know in the comments section!

You’ve Got the Job, Now It’s Time to Dress the Part

Every office and company differs in their dress code. Some require professional dress Monday through Friday, others offer business casual with casual Fridays. But do you know what the expectations are for these recommendations? Will you be able to dress the part and fit in at your new job? Here are a few basic guidelines for common dress code types to help you dress for success.

Professional – This dress code consists of suits, button down shirts and dress shoes. It can also include ties and vests for men, and pantsuits or skirts with nylons for women. Professional attire is the most formal in a business environment. Full suits are appropriate for everyday wear in certain professions, as well as special presentations and meetings in more casual atmospheres. Professional dress is also the most appropriate interview attire.

Business Casual – Saved for relaxed but professional atmospheres, business casual attire is made up of button-down shirts and slacks for men, and a skirt or slacks with a blouse for women. Wearing a coordinating sport coat or blazer is a nice touch but isn’t usually required. Khakis and a polo shirt that bears the corporate logo is usually acceptable as well.

Casual – This type of attire is reserved for the most casual work environments. In some offices, it’s only allowed on casual Fridays. Casual wear can include jeans, sneakers, polos or even Hawaiian print shirts. If your company allows you to wear casual attire, avoid wearing jogging suits, T-shirts, sandals or revealing clothing. If you aren’t sure how to dress on casual Fridays, khakis and a polo are a safe bet. It’s better to dress one step up than one step down from the dress code.

Make sure you check the company’s dress code before you start your first day at a new job and plan accordingly to make a great impression. If you aren’t sure what dress code should be followed once you’re on the job, ask a supervisor or manager. You can also take clues by observing what others wear to the office, especially those in leadership positions.

5 Ways to Earn Respect from Your Co-workers

A new job also brings new co-workers, and that means getting along with new people. Figuring out what to say and how to act around different personalities can be tough when you start a new job. Here are five tips to help you earn the respect of your co-workers.

1. Have a great attitude. Be optimistic at work, regardless of the situation. Your co-workers will respect you when you are positive about your work. Expressing a good attitude even when you need help from others, shows that you are humble and willing to accept that others may know more than you do. To stay optimistic, talk positively about others, your work and every situation. Show your gratitude, and thank your co-workers when they offer help or guidance.

2. Develop a strong work ethic. Maintaining a solid work ethic demonstrates that you are the type of person who puts your best foot forward each day. Doing your work on time and helping others lets them know they can depend on you. You will be respected for your work ethic and dependability when others can rely on you to pull your own weight and get the job done.

3. Demonstrate integrity. Building relationships with co-workers should be based on trust. Be honest with them, and act in a manner that shows your genuine character. Follow company procedures and policies, and make decisions that will allow people to trust you and your judgment. Don’t allow your co-workers to doubt you because of the way you act or what you say. After your co-workers see that you act with integrity, their respect will follow.

4. Embody professionalism. Your appearance, behavior and speech showcase whether or not you have the ability to represent your position accurately. Dress appropriately for your workplace by following the dress code. Be aware of your behavior around others and be careful not to act inappropriately at work. And, watch what you say to others and how you say it. Prove to your co-workers that you are a professional.

5. Respect others. Be polite and courteous to others you work with. Respect their personal space, possessions, opinions and work. Show the same consideration to others that you would want to receive, and refrain from criticizing others’ suggestions or viewpoint. You can have a great attitude, strong work ethic, integrity and professionalism, but without respecting others you won’t receive respect in return.

Following the five tips above will guide you to earning respect from your co-workers. Don’t forget to be patient. It takes time to earn respect from others in the workplace, but it’s worth the effort in order to build lasting relationships with new people.

What tips do you have for others to earn respect in the workplace? Have you been able to earn respect at your job?

9 Tips to a Smooth Start at a New Job

Your first few weeks at a new job are crucial because your co-workers are developing their first impressions of you, and you’re forming work habits that will stay with you for the long haul. During this time, your behavior, attitude and actions will set your work pace and form your reputation, so starting off on the right foot is important. Here are nine tips to help you ensure a smooth start at your new job.

1. Ask questions. If you don’t have the answer to a question or problem you are working on, ask someone to help you out. It’s better to avoid a mistake than to make an irreversible one, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.

2. Take notes. Write down everyday tasks and important information that you will need to know later, such as logins and how to operate the phone system. Keep these in a notebook or folder that you can get to at any time. Also, jot down information you learn about the company during training and interacting with your co-workers.

3. Avoid surfing. Stay off of the Internet, and don’t be tempted to check your personal e-mail. If you feel like you have downtime, find company materials you can read to increase your knowledge of the organization, industry and job processes.

4. Turn off your phone. Don’t be a disturbance to yourself and others by answering your cell phone at work. Turn your cell phone off, and let incoming calls go to voicemail. Wait until a break or lunch time to check your voicemail and return personal calls.

5. Complete your tasks. Doing your best work and completing each task on time is critical, because you want your supervisor and peers to see what you are capable of. But, make sure you are also not falling behind. If you find you have too much on your plate, talk to your supervisor and see how you can prioritize your time better.

6. Listen and observe. You can learn more by listening than you can by talking, so be attentive and don’t interrupt others when they are speaking. You’ll be able to learn about company culture, work flow and company policy by paying attention to your co-workers and observing their behavior in the workplace.

7. Be positive. Your attitude shows if you care to be at your new job or not, so be positive and enthusiastic about your new opportunity. Be friendly and courteous to your co-workers while showing them that you are confident and eager to learn.

8. Earn respect. This is your only chance to create a first impression, so demonstrate your work ethic, and give 110% to all of your duties. Be humble about needing help, and make sure to thank your co-workers when they do help you out. Then, they’ll show you respect, because you’ve earned it.

9. Be a team player. Make time to collaborate with your co-workers, especially if they need help. Work together with your new co-workers instead of trying to compete against them. You’re on the same team now, and you’ll get more done working together than you will working alone.

Being successful in a new job takes effort, so put these nine tips to use from day one. Work on a positive image and start your job off right. Your first impression is usually a lasting impression, so make it a good one.

What advice do you have for others starting a new job?

7 Tips to a Successful First Day at a New Job

Imagine you’ve recently received a job offer, and you decided to accept it. The job search is over, but now your first day at your new job is just around the corner. Are you a nervous wreck, overwhelmed thinking about all of the changes you’re making, or are you ready? Do you know how to prepare for this challenge? Here are seven tips to help you have a successful first day at a new job.

1. Refresh your memory. Look again at the company’s website and refresh your memory about all of the company’s information you discovered before your first interview. Review any information you may have been given during the interview process. Also, look over the job description and review what is required. If you have time before you start, you may want to polish a skill or two.

2. Get your rest. No one wants to start off their first day tired, so make sure you get a full night’s sleep. If you are feeling sluggish, drink a glass of water in the morning to help wake up your body. Then, you’ll be ready to tackle the tasks at your new job because you’ll be awake and alert.

3. Dress appropriately. Set out your work attire the night before, making sure to follow the company’s dress code. Scrambling around trying to figure out what you are going to wear will only stress you out and probably make you late.

4. Know the route. Chances are, you interviewed where you will be working. But if not, make sure you know how to get there and how long it will take, and plan accordingly so you arrive on time. Remember to factor in traffic if your previous trips to your interviews weren’t during rush hour.

5. Make a good first impression. Be polite and friendly to everyone you meet at your new job. Make good eye contact as you introduce yourself to others. If you need to, write down people’s names so you can remember them later when you pass them in the hall.

6. Be flexible. Although you may want to meet friends for lunch, keep your schedule open. Your new co-workers might offer to take you out to welcome you to the team. In case this doesn’t happen, take a few dollars with you and find a place nearby so you can treat yourself to lunch.

7. Ask questions. Your co-workers understand that you are new to the job and might need help, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. Take notes on helpful information you will need later, such as routine tasks and access codes. It’s better to be seen as someone that accepts help than to be a know-it-all that refuses help.

You made it through the application and interview process, so relax and try to enjoy your first day. Remember, the company hired you for a reason. You’re the right person for the position, and you’ve earned this opportunity.

Have you started a new job recently? What suggestions do you have for others that are nervous or overwhelmed about starting a new job?