HMG Success - The Advance Group

Switching Roles? Here’s What You Need to Put in Your Cover Letter

HMG Success on August 19, 2019

Heading into a new career territory can be exciting, but it can also be difficult. As a candidate, you need to ensure the hiring manager knows your skills are a match to their needs, even if you haven’t worked in that role or field before.

In order to sell the hiring manager on the idea, you need to make sure your cover letter is on point. This critical document allows you to share details that won’t fit on your resume, allowing you to showcase why you are a great fit, even if your prior experience has been in another niche.

If you are ready to make a career switch, here’s what you need to put in your cover letter.

Introduce Your Relevant Strengths

When you are switching careers, you can’t expect the hiring manager to be enticed based on your past work experience alone. Instead, you need to draw them in by highlighting your relevant strengths, allowing them to see how what you bring to the table provides value.

As you introduce yourself, avoid giving a play-by-play of your work history. Instead, showcase achievements and skills that relate strongly to the role you want to land and use those as springboards for describing how you can excel in the job and help the company succeed.

Explain Why You Are Making a Change

While the hiring manager might be able to glean that you are trying to switch careers, they won’t be able to guess why. In your cover letter, it is wise to explain your motivation.

For example, if an intriguing piece of industry news ignited your passion, a side project sparked your interest in heading into the industry full-time, or a long-standing interest in the field that you have chosen to pursue is behind the change, let the hiring manager know. Give them insight into why their vacant position caught your eye, even if your background is a bit nontraditional for the job.

Have a Strong Closing

The last paragraph of your cover letter is your final opportunity to convince the hiring manager to give you a chance, so you need to make a strong case for yourself. Highlight your relevant skills and how you can use them to help the company excel. Showcase your excitement for the role and your interest in using your transferable skills in a new way.

The idea is to sell yourself as the ideal candidate, making the hiring manager more inclined to consider you, even if your background isn’t the typical path to that particular position. Once that is done, let them know you appreciate their time and look forward to hearing back or answering any additional questions they may have, ensuring you have extended all common courtesies.

By following the cover letter tips above, you can increase the odds you will successfully take your career in a new direction. If you’d like to find out more, the staff at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our skilled team members today and see how our career transition expertise can benefit you.

Happy 3rd Anniversary, Niki Schroeder!

HMG Success on August 16, 2019

To celebrate Niki Schroeder’s 3rd year with The Advance Group, we sat down with her for a Q & A session. Here are a few highlights to enjoy:

Q: What quote do you live by?
A: “Though she be but little, she is fierce!” – William Shakespeare

Q: What brings you the greatest joy?
A: Traveling.

Q: What charity do you support?
A: Project iAm, whose main focus is to provide support and information, resources, and financial assistance to families affected by autism.

Niki is a Senior Staffing Specialist with The Advance Group’s Sylvania branch. Happy Anniversary, Niki!

How Much Should You Support Employees’ Extracurricular Activities?

HMG Success on August 16, 2019

Most companies focus on their employees’ work-related time and activities. After all, ensuring everyone remains productive and engaged on the job is critical to the organization’s success, making it an obvious priority.

However, employers also need to be aware their workers have lives outside of the workplace. Additionally, understanding that good work-life balance benefits employees and employers alike is similarly crucial.

When professionals are able to keep their personal lives in order and enjoy some extracurricular activities, their stress levels decrease. Plus, being able to have some fun during their off time not only makes them happier, but may also allow them to be more creative and innovative on the job.

As a result, supporting your employees’ extracurricular activities can help the company succeed. If you are wondering why you should ensure your staff has time for a life outside of the workplace, here’s what you need to know.

They Will Be More Productive

In order to be at one’s best, most people need a chance to recharge. If an employee is continuously burning the candle at both ends, their stress levels will build, and they might even burn out.

Having time to relax and rejuvenate is critical for stress management. By supporting your employees’ need for time off the job, you are giving them the space they need to recharge. Then, when they return to the workplace, they will have a better mindset, allowing them to be more productive.

Similarly, having time to handle personal or family obligations is also beneficial. If an employee is distracted by their responsibilities outside of the workplace during work hours, they won’t be able to focus as easily on the task at hand. By giving them the ability to handle their lives outside of work, they will be less likely to carry that stress in with them, making it more likely that they will remain productive.

Recruitment and Retention Rates Will Improve

When you support your employees’ need for a personal life, your retention rates can improve. Professionals often favor companies that promote great work-life balance, making you a more enticing employer.

By supporting their extracurricular activities, your existing staff may be less inclined to seek opportunities elsewhere. Many professionals understand that not all companies make work-life balance a priority, so, if that is something they value, they might not risk heading to a competitor.

Additionally, your recruitment efforts may also be more effective. Candidates will seek out opportunities with your company since they know that you can offer better work-life balance. You become a more attractive potential employer, which can make it easier to find top talent to fill your vacant positions.

Ultimately, supporting your employees’ extracurricular activities doesn’t just benefit them; the company benefits too. If you’d like to learn more, the experienced professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with a member of our knowledgeable team today and see how our work-life balance expertise can benefit you.

Happy 6th Anniversary, Dan Haller

HMG Success on August 14, 2019

To celebrate Dan Haller’s 6^th year with The Advance Group, we sat down with him for a Q & A session. Here are a few highlights to enjoy:

Q: What brings you the greatest joy?
A: Being a dad

Q: What is the best advice you’ve been given?
A: It’s not your job to make people happy, you’re not an entertainment director on a cruise line.

Q: Who are your heroes?
A: My parents.

Q: What’s your favorite band?
A: Van Halen.

Q: What quote do you live by?
A: You can’t make people happy, you’re not tequila.

Dan is a Staffing Specialist with The Advance Group. Happy Anniversary, Dan!

Is Temp Work Stable Work?

HMG Success on August 12, 2019

Many professionals worry temp work isn’t particularly stable. After all, the positions themselves are often designed to be short-term or finite in nature, giving the impression you can’t have a reliable source of income if you accept temporary assignments.

In reality, temp work can be incredibly stable, and it isn’t as high-risk as some believe. Additionally, it provides professionals with a level of flexibility that isn’t always possible in a permanent position, making it easier to handle all of their personal and professional obligations.

If you are wondering how temp work can be stable, here’s what you need to know.

Assignment Parameters Are Clear

When you accept a temporary job, your recruiter will make sure you know what to expect. This includes the anticipated duration of the assignment, either based on the expected amount of time the selected candidate will be in the position or the timeline associated with the project (for project-based assignments).

This allows candidates to estimate how long they will be in a short-term role. Then, when the end starts to draw near, they can explore new assignments that can begin once this one is complete, allowing them to transition seamlessly from one into the next.

Opportunities Are Plentiful

Nearly every field has a need for short-term workers. Whether it is to assist with a particular project, support seasonal increases in demand, or cover permanent staff members who will be absent, companies in a variety of industries often turn to temporary employees to ensure they remain productive.

As a result, new temporary opportunities emerge on a daily basis. Skilled professionals can move quickly from one assignment to the next, particularly if their skills are in high demand, creating a level of stability even if they don’t remain with the same company over the long-term.

Competitive Pay and Increased Flexibility

Many temp workers earn competitive salaries. Companies understand they have to offer a pay rate that aligns with industry norms if they want to secure top talent for short-term positions. As a result, professionals can find temporary roles with salaries similar to what they could find in many permanent jobs.

However, unlike a permanent role, temp workers get a substantial amount of flexibility. They can pick and choose their assignments, allowing them to focus on their areas of interest or use their preferred skills. Additionally, if they need to step away from the workforce for any reason, including handling personal obligations, they can do so with ease. Once their current assignment ends, they can choose to wait before accepting another one without the majority of the repercussions they could experience if they had to quit a permanent job.

Ultimately, working as a temporary employee can be a surprisingly stable way to make a living. Plus, it ensures your career can adapt to your personal life, something that may not be possible otherwise.

If you would like to learn more about the benefits of being a temp worker or are interested in temporary or permanent work opportunities, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our knowledgeable recruiters today and see how our hiring services can benefit you.

Don’t Come to Your Next Interview Until You Read This

HMG Success on August 9, 2019

If you want to succeed during your next job interview, preparation is key. Often, the effort you put in before you meet with the hiring manager has a significant impact on how you perform as an interviewee, affecting whether you receive an offer or are removed from contention.

Before your next interview, you need to focus on a few critical areas as you prepare. If you want to make sure you are ready to impress the hiring manager, here are some tips that can help you shine during the interview.

Review the Job Ad

Before you head to an interview, take some time to review the vacancy announcement. Assume that anything listed as must-have skills will come up during the meeting, and reflect on your experience and achievements in those areas. Then, you can practice a few interview responses that address those points, ensuring you are ready to discuss your capabilities in areas the hiring manager will likely deem essential.

Learn About the Company

Taking some time to research the prospective employer is critical. By learning about their products, services, mission, history and recent achievements, you are giving yourself an opportunity to use those details during your interview.

For example, if you are asked why you are interested in the role, being able to include information about the company’s mission and how it aligns with your values could make you look like a better cultural match. Similarly, being able to connect your skills, the role’s duties, and the company’s products or services specifically can also reflect well on you.

Additionally, you have a chance to learn a variety of publicly accessible details about the organization. This can help ensure, when you have an opportunity to ask the hiring manager questions, you don’t request information that can be found in a quick internet search. Often, hiring managers will doubt your level of interest if you didn’t look up readily available information, so a little research allows you to avoid this potential faux pas.

Have Questions Ready

When the hiring manager asks if you have any questions, saying “no” is one of the worst things you can do. Not only does this make you look less interested in the role, but it also means you miss out on a big opportunity to learn more about the position and company.

Have a few questions prepared before you head into the interview. For example, “Is there anything about my skills or background that is preventing me from being a top candidate?” allows you to address any doubts the hiring manager may have about your capabilities, making it a good one to keep in your back pocket. “Can you describe a typical day in the role?” gives you a chance to find out more about the usual pace and common duties you might need to handle.

When it comes to interviewing, a little preparation can go a long way. With the tips above, you can make sure you are ready to stand out from the competition. If you would like to learn more, the skilled team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our experienced recruiters today and see how our interview preparation expertise can benefit you.

Avionte Client Connect

HMG Success on August 8, 2019

The Advance Group president Stacey Bigelow was invited to speak on a panel of industry experts at Avionte’s Client Connect conference. This panel was appointed to discuss issues facing the staffing industry. Avionte Client Connect is an industry-leading event where people gather to grow their staffing and recruiting knowledge and optimize their success. Attendees can network with peers in the industry, learn best practices, discover new integrated technologies to increase efficiency, and put a face to the people behind their software. The Advance Group is committed to continuous learning and sharing of our expertise in order to best serve both our clients and our candidates!

Here’s Why People Don’t Want Your Job

HMG Success on August 5, 2019

Finding candidates for your vacant job seems like a simple task. After all, many job seekers are actively looking for a new role, so it seems only natural that qualified individuals would apply. As a result, if the resumes don’t start to roll in, it isn’t uncommon to be a bit confused.

Certain aspects of your position might not be enticing to candidates. In worst-case scenarios, portions of your description or other factors may even lead some job seekers to turn away from your open position.

Luckily, by figuring out why people don’t want your open position, you can make corrections. If you aren’t receiving applications from qualified individuals, here are some points to consider.

Your Job Ad Is Aging

Roles that require a hard-to-find skill set take time to fill. While leaving the same job ad up may seem like a good idea, as time passes, it will get diminishing returns.

When a candidate is looking for a new position, they often focus on new listings. Usually, those are presented first when they do a search, so they might not have a reason to peruse page after page of listings.

Additionally, many job seekers question whether an old job ad is accurate. Some may assume the role has been filled and the company simply forgot to take the job ad down. Others may worry there is something wrong with the opportunity, like a hiring manager who can’t make up their mind or a disorganized and lengthy hiring process.

If your job ad has been up for a while, it isn’t a bad idea to refresh it. That way, the listing appears newer, increasing the odds it will end up on candidates’ radar and reducing the chances of them being suspicious of the post.

Your Job Ad Looks Like a Scam

Professionals are increasingly aware of potential red flags that could signal a job is actually a scam. For example, promises that the new hire can make a lot of money in a short period, directing them to reach out over a messenger instead of applying through a traditional mechanism (like the job site or a company’s recruitment page), saying a lot of people will be hired quickly, or similar content could leave job seekers wary of the role’s legitimacy.

Additionally, not publishing your company name could make the position seem more like a scam. Similarly, if a candidate Googles your company name and comes up empty, not able to find a website or social media pages, they might assume the business isn’t real.

The Position Description Isn’t Enticing

Job seekers want a clear idea of what the role entails before they apply. If your position description is too vague, many will bypass your opportunity, at times because they assume you are hiding aspects of the job that they wouldn’t like.

On the other side, lengthy job descriptions with massive requirements lists are also not ideal. Some candidates won’t apply unless they meet 100 percent of the requirements, essentially screening themselves out even if they are capable of excelling in the position.

Ultimately, all of the reasons above could keep people from applying to your job. By avoiding these missteps, you can increase your applicant rate and have a better chance of finding the top talent you need.

If you would like to know more about effective recruiting, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our knowledgeable recruitment specialists today and see how our expertise can benefit you.

What’s the Difference Between These Forklift Jobs?

HMG Success on August 2, 2019

If you are (or are planning to become) forklift certified, there are a variety of job opportunities available that can let you put your forklift skills to work. While all of the roles involve forklifts, they aren’t all exactly the same. As a result, it can be hard to figure out which forklift jobs align with your needs and preferences.

By understanding the differences between various forklift jobs, you can target the ones that feel like your best match. Here’s what you need to know about common forklift roles.

Forklift Operator

When a role comes with the “forklift operator” job title, it usually involves a substantial amount of forklift driving. Operating a forklift is a core part of the role, and your duties beyond using this piece of equipment may be fairly limited.

It is important to note that many forklift operators are responsible for handling companion duties. This can include tracking inventory, ensuring orders are correctly filled, assisting with packing, and some heavy lifting. However, if driving a forklift is one of your favorite tasks, looking for forklift operator positions could ensure you get to spend more of your time doing what you enjoy.

Forklift Mechanic

Forklift mechanics aren’t just responsible for operating forklifts, though it is usually part of the job. Instead, they also need to handle repair and maintenance duties, ensuring the equipment is running properly and that issues are identified and corrected.

Usually, forklift mechanics spend a decent amount of their time repairing and maintaining the equipment. Their driving duties may be limited to checking how a forklift is operating or if a repair is successful. However, they may also double as a forklift operator during times when all of the equipment is operational and doesn’t require routine maintenance on that particular day.

Beyond being forklift certified, many forklift mechanic positions require candidates to have additional credentials. Usually, this includes formal training or prior experience in forklift repair and maintenance, or on heavy equipment in general.

Warehouse Worker

Many warehouse worker roles also require forklift skills. Most employees working in these roles have to be flexible regarding their assigned duties, as they are responsible for more than just operating a forklift.

For example, inventory tracking, picking and packing, checking shipments for accuracy, and stocking shelves might be part of their assigned workload. Precisely what is needed can vary from day to day, so operating a forklift may only be necessary under specific circumstances.

Ultimately, there are a variety of positions that require forklift skills, giving certified operators a range of opportunities to explore as they work to further their career. If you’d like to find out more or are seeking new forklift jobs, the experienced team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our skilled recruiters today and see how our forklift career expertise can benefit you, or browse our open forklift jobs for yourself.

Happy 8th Anniversary, Linda Roth

HMG Success on July 31, 2019

To celebrate Linda Roth’s 8^th year with The Advance Group, we sat down with her for a Q & A session. Here are a few highlights to enjoy:

Q:What do you like to do in your spare time?
A:Travel, attend sporting events, go to concerts, run.

Q:What charity do you support?
A:The American Cancer Society.

Q:What brings you the greatest joy?
A:Spending time with my family.

Linda is the Recruiting Operations Manager and works with all three branches of The Advance Group. Happy Anniversary, Linda!

How to Deal With a “Credit Thief”

HMG Success on July 29, 2019

At some point in every professional’s career, they will have to work as part of a team to complete a project. All parties have to contribute to reach the desired goal and, without the others, the project likely wouldn’t succeed.

In most cases, once the project draws to a close, everyone involved is recognized for their efforts. However, in some cases, a co-worker may swoop in and take credit for your work, leaving you in a precarious situation.

Figuring out how to deal with a “credit thief” isn’t always easy. Luckily, there are steps you can take to address the situation and prevent it from happening in the future. Here’s how to get started.

Prepare Yourself to Speak Up

Many professionals may be tempted to overlook a teammate stealing credit, assuming addressing the issue would cause more drama than it is worth. While considering moving past the incident doesn’t seem inappropriate on the surface, it does show that teammate you aren’t going to speak up, potentially encouraging them to continue the behavior.

While you don’t want to lash out the moment they take credit for your work, you do need to prepare yourself for a conversation. That way, you can set boundaries and ensure you are properly recognized for your contributions.

Talk to Your Co-Worker in Private

In some cases, a teammate may accidentally take credit for your work. They might not have meant you any harm and, if they were put on the spot when asked about the project, may have accidentally misspoken. As a result, speaking to your co-worker in private is often the best way to proceed.

Don’t start the discussion in an accusatory manner. Instead, let your teammate know how the incident made you feel and how it may have influenced the way you are viewed in the workplace. Give your co-worker a chance to explain why it occurred. Then, work together to create a plan to ensure it doesn’t happen again in the future.

Set Up a Meeting With Your Manager

If you have spoken to your teammate and the issue remains unresolved or if your co-worker continues to take credit for your work, you may need to get your manager involved. Schedule a one-on-one meeting with your boss to discuss the issue. Then, if more is required, be ready to participate in another meeting with you, your manager and your teammate.

Ideally, you should only involve your manager if it is genuinely required, hence why you should talk to your co-worker in private first. However, if the conflict escalates or your teammate continues a pattern of stealing credit, involving your boss may be necessary as a means of protecting your reputation and getting the situation resolved.

If you would like to know more about how to deal with credit thieves, or find a new job far away from them, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our knowledgeable staff members today and see how our workplace conflict management expertise can benefit you.

Summer Is Here: Are Your Employees Enjoying It?

HMG Success on July 26, 2019

Most professionals spend at least 40 hours a week in the workplace. During the summer, it’s easy to become distracted by the beautiful weather or feel disappointed you can’t spend your time enjoying this amazing season.

Keeping workers engaged during the summer can be challenging. However, by injecting some fun into the workplace, you can make sure they aren’t just watching the calendar and pining for their vacation.

The occasional party can go a long way toward boosting morale and, during the summer, there can be a lot worth celebrating. If you want to recognize your team with a little workplace fun, here are some reasons that are appropriate for the summer season.

Monthly Birthday Party

Most workplaces can’t afford to stop and recognize every employee on their actual birthday. However, by hosting monthly birthday parties that acknowledge all your workers that were born in a particular month, you can inject a little fun into your environment.

Holding a small gathering with some sweet treats can be sufficient. However, if you want to go further, consider adding a few party games to the mix. Not only can this up the level of fun, but it can also support team building, giving the event additional value. Just make sure that you also give room for some socialization, as this also promotes bonding between teammates and can lead to lower stress levels.

Employee Appreciation Barbecue

When the weather is nice, spending some time outside enjoying a great meal can be an excellent reward. Consider hosting a team- or company-wide barbecue, complete with grilled foods, tasty side dishes, cold beverages and a cooling dessert.

If you want to up the fun, bring along some outdoor games. Horseshoes and bocce ball are easy to set up, can ignite a friendly competitive spirit, and can allow many people to join in on the festivities throughout the day.

Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is a great holiday to celebrate during the summer, and another occasion where having a barbecue to thank your employees for their hard work is certainly appropriate.

If you need to hold the event after work hours, you could even choose a location where setting off fireworks or lighting sparklers is allowed. If possible, making an after-hours event open to family members as well, ensuring employees can spend time with their nearest and dearest while enjoying the party.

Ultimately, there are plenty of reasons to celebrate this summer, giving you a chance to make sure your employees are enjoying the season. If you would like to learn about additional options, the experienced staff at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our skilled and knowledgeable team members today and see how our employee appreciation expertise can benefit you this summer and beyond.