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5 Tips to Make – And Keep – Your Employees Happy

HMG Success on April 1, 2019

 

Workplace morale commonly ebbs and flows. Everything from increasing or decreasing workloads to shifts in the seasons can impact the mood in your workplace, and not always for the better.

Luckily, there are things you can do as an employer to counteract declines in morale, empowering you to improve the mood of your staff. If you want to make and keep your employees happy, here are five tips that can help you do just that.

1. Provide Perks Year-Round

Many companies focus on perks and celebrations during the winter holidays. However, once that period is over, the workplace returns to “normal,” and there is much less revelry.

While acknowledging the winter holidays can be great for morale, only celebrating during that time of year means you are missing out on an opportunity. For example, instead of just offering free food treats in December, consider making it a monthly event. Similarly, looking for other holidays to use as themes for regular celebrations can be a great option.

Spreading out perks and celebrations throughout the year can be great for morale, so don’t feel like you can only mark occasions in the winter.

2. Try Flexible Schedules

Flexibility is nearly always appreciated by your staff. The ability to adjust their work schedules to accommodate their personal obligations can be very stress relieving, as it allows them to accomplish their tasks, avoid using leave, and still manage their lives.

While you can certainly put some controls in place, such as listing certain core hours as mandatory, any level of flexibility can make your workers happier. As long as you are not overly restrictive and have a formal process that governs how they can and can’t adjust their schedule, you can create a win-win.

3. Offer Telecommuting Options

The ability to telecommute has a similar impact as flexible schedules. By allowing employees to work from home, even on occasion, you let them skip their commute and complete their duties in an environment that feels comfortable.

Again, having a formal policy that outlines telecommuting rules is not just acceptable; it is encouraged. Just make sure the rules apply fairly and everyone has a chance to benefit, and morale can soar.

4. Demonstrate Your Appreciation

While group celebrations can be great for morale, you still need to show each worker you appreciate them for their individual contributions. Whether it is cash bonuses, small gifts, or recognizing them personally during staff meetings, any option that allows you to demonstrate your appreciation can go a long way when it comes to keeping your staff happy.

5. Say “Thank You”

Sometimes, the simplest gesture is incredibly effective. Thanking your employees for all that they do makes them feel seen and appreciated, and it’s easy to work into any day, no matter how busy they or your managers are at the time.

Additionally, a heartfelt thank you when they turn in assignments, drop off mail, or complete a requested task creates a culture with appreciation at its core. This can make your work environment more pleasant overall, making it a better place for everyone.

If you would like to learn more about how you can keep your employees happy, the staff at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our knowledgeable team members today and see how our workplace morale expertise can benefit you.

 

 

What Are You Doing With Your Career?

HMG Success on March 29, 2019

 

People are naturally compelled to compare themselves to others. When you look at another person’s career, especially if they are high-achieving, it is easy to wonder, “What am I doing with my life?” and have doubts about your direction.

Often, professionals keep these thoughts to themselves, even though almost everyone experiences them at one time or another. This is especially true if you are in the middle of a tough job search and just can’t seem to land a position that feels like the right step forward.

While you may not be able to stop wondering, “What am I doing with my career?” that doesn’t mean you aren’t heading in the right direction. If you find yourself plagued by doubts, here’s what you need to know.

You’re Not Alone

First and foremost, it is important that having these thoughts is both normal and common. Even highly successful people can struggle with doubt, especially if something unexpected happens in your career or you are not finding the new job opportunity that you were hoping to land.

Typically, these emotions are somewhat a mix of admiration for what someone else has accomplished and disappointment about where you are in comparison. It’s okay to battle these feelings, but it is also crucial that you don’t dwell. Instead, you want to take action.

You Can Move Forward

After you recognize your emotions, you need to figure out what you can do to move forward. This can be challenging, especially if you already work hard and haven’t reached your desired level of success. However, it isn’t impossible, as long as you are diligent and willing to take a look at your career.

Begin by documenting where you are today and reflect on the steps it took to get there. By reflecting on your journey, you can see how far you’ve actually come, and that can give you valuable perspective.

Next, think about your priorities. While it may be nice to be further up the career ladder or in a different profession, are there other things you deem more important? Ultimately, there are only so many hours in a day, so you need to decide what matters to you most before you make a move.

Then, consider where you want to be in the future and figure out what steps lie between you and your ideal role. This allows you to craft an action plan based on what needs to occur for you to advance and reach your perfect job.

By using the tips above, you can make sure you are in full control of your career by being ready to take action if necessary. However, if other things are more important, take a moment to appreciate those areas of your life. That may be all you need to get the emotional relief you need to continue on your chosen path.

If you are looking for more career guidance, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with a member of our knowledgeable staff today and see how our career planning expertise can benefit you. Or click here to browse our open jobs today!

 

 

Important Information on Michigan’s Paid Leave

HMG Success on March 28, 2019

 

Michigan’s Paid Medical Leave Act will take effect on March 29, 2019.  The Act requires most employers in Michigan to provide up to 40 hours of paid medical leave for certain eligible employees to use for the employee’s own medical condition, to care for a family member’s medical condition, and in other emergency situations.  The state’s required posting regarding the Paid Medical Leave Act is below for your reference.

The Paid Medical Leave Act also applies to the Advance Group’s temporary employee workforce.  As with all payroll and benefit issues, Advance will fully administer this leave program and the Act’s related compliance obligations for the temporary employees who are assigned to our clients.  The Paid Medical Leave Act contains provisions that prohibit all employers from retaliating against employees for properly using their paid medical leave benefits, so employees who meet the eligibility requirements and are placed at our clients’ companies will be permitted to take paid medical leave pursuant to the Act and Advance is unable to make assignment decisions based on medical leave eligibility or use.

The Paid Medical Leave Act permits employees to use time off for unforeseeable emergencies, so there may be instances where an employee calls off to take advantage of this benefit.  Advance instituted strict call off procedures to require as much employee notice as the law permits and requires medical or other documentation to substantiate all absences so the paid leave is not abused.  Advance instituted these guidelines to provide the least amount of disruption as possible to its clients as the new law takes effect.  If you have any questions about Advance’s compliance procedures with the Paid Medical Leave Act, please contact your account representative.

 

 

This One Thing Can Make a Big Difference to Your Employees

HMG Success on March 25, 2019

Employees look to their manager for guidance, and not just in regards to their daily duties or critical projects. They often see them as role models and mentors as well, and they want your input to help them shape their careers.

However, figuring out how to approach the topic can seem daunting. After all, you do not want to give them advice that does not pan out, potentially leading them down the wrong path.

Luckily, there is one thing you can do that can make a massive difference in the lives of your employee and those around you. Here’s what you need to know.

Encourage Them to Think Big

Most professionals have a basic plan of where they want to be in the future. However, they may be limiting themselves, even if they are fairly ambitious, partially because they have never considered certain paths viable or within reach.

You can inspire your employees to overcome these barriers by encouraging them to think big. For example, if a team member has a career plan that involves new skills, but they do not mention moving into leadership roles, ask them how they feel about the idea.

The purpose is to challenge them with something that is more ambitious than their current goal. Get them to consider more than just what they have their eyes on today, as it may broaden their horizons and help them realize their potential.

Plus, if you genuinely believe they are capable of what you are proposing, your faith in their abilities will further inspire them. This is especially true if they view you with respect and as an authority on the matter, increasing the odds they will take the question seriously.

It only takes a moment for you to spark an idea in the mind of a talented professional, so it is worth sitting down with your employees individually and helping them explore what is possible.

Offer Concrete Steps When Possible

If you can go further than just presenting an idea by also offering them an opportunity to take a step forward, do it. Often, even those with big ambitions do not always know how to begin or where they can find the opening they need to make progress. If you have it within your power to provide a concrete plan that can make that new goal a reality, you are not just inspiring them to strive for greater success; you are enabling them to achieve their dreams.

Ultimately, these small conversations can be very powerful, increasing the odds your employees will reach their full potential. If you would like to know more, the professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us for a free staffing consultation or to discuss your questions with a member of our skilled team today and see how our expertise can benefit you and your employees today, tomorrow, and well into the future.

This One Thing Can Make a Big Difference to Your Employees

HMG Success on March 25, 2019

 

Employees look to their manager for guidance, and not just in regards to their daily duties or critical projects. They often see them as role models and mentors as well, and they want your input to help them shape their careers.

However, figuring out how to approach the topic can seem daunting. After all, you do not want to give them advice that does not pan out, potentially leading them down the wrong path.

Luckily, there is one thing you can do that can make a massive difference in the lives of your employee and those around you. Here’s what you need to know.

Encourage Them to Think Big

Most professionals have a basic plan of where they want to be in the future. However, they may be limiting themselves, even if they are fairly ambitious, partially because they have never considered certain paths viable or within reach.

You can inspire your employees to overcome these barriers by encouraging them to think big. For example, if a team member has a career plan that involves new skills, but they do not mention moving into leadership roles, ask them how they feel about the idea.

The purpose is to challenge them with something that is more ambitious than their current goal. Get them to consider more than just what they have their eyes on today, as it may broaden their horizons and help them realize their potential.

Plus, if you genuinely believe they are capable of what you are proposing, your faith in their abilities will further inspire them. This is especially true if they view you with respect and as an authority on the matter, increasing the odds they will take the question seriously.

It only takes a moment for you to spark an idea in the mind of a talented professional, so it is worth sitting down with your employees individually and helping them explore what is possible.

Offer Concrete Steps When Possible

If you can go further than just presenting an idea by also offering them an opportunity to take a step forward, do it. Often, even those with big ambitions do not always know how to begin or where they can find the opening they need to make progress. If you have it within your power to provide a concrete plan that can make that new goal a reality, you are not just inspiring them to strive for greater success; you are enabling them to achieve their dreams.

Ultimately, these small conversations can be very powerful, increasing the odds your employees will reach their full potential. If you would like to know more, the professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us for a free staffing consultation or to discuss your questions with a member of our skilled team today and see how our expertise can benefit you and your employees today, tomorrow, and well into the future.

 

 

Does Your Resume Do You Justice?

HMG Success on March 22, 2019

 

Modesty is often considered a virtue, but it doesn’t always serve you well when you are looking to land a new job. Selling yourself short on your resume can cause you to miss out on opportunities, including an amazing new position.

At its core, a resume is a marketing document, so you need to treat it as such. By using it to sell your experience, skills, and achievements, you increase your odds of standing out in the eyes of the hiring manager, making it more likely that you will be called in for an interview.

If you don’t know if your resume is going you justice, here’s what you need to consider.

Is Your Resume an Attention-Grabber?

Researchers have long said that a hiring manager only reviews a resume for a few seconds initially. This means you just have a couple of moments to grab their attention. Otherwise, they are going to move on to the next candidate.

Ideally, your resume needs to be filled with short statements that pack a punch. Strive to highlight your accomplishments and relevant skills, showcasing exactly why you are right for that particular role.

Are You Overly Modest?

Your resume is an opportunity to politely brag about what you bring to the table. Often, job seekers fear that, if they are too assertive, the hiring manager may assume they are arrogant.

While this can certainly happen if you are overly aggressive, there are ways you can brag that comes off as confident, not arrogant. For example, embracing active instead of passive voice when you discuss your accomplishments is a great way to start. It makes your resume engaging and highlights your trust in your abilities without arrogance.

Using strong action words – like “achieved,” “identified,” “generated,” “solved,” and “upgraded” – also helps your resume pack a punch without going too far.

Did You Include Numbers?

Quantifying your accomplishments is always the best approach. Not only do numbers visually stand out, drawing the hiring manager’s attention, but they also provide valuable context about your achievement.

For example, “Increased sales” is not nearly as impactful as “Increased sales by 20 percent.” Dollar amounts are similarly powerful, so add them whenever appropriate.

Can You Back It Up?

You can’t just tell the hiring manager you are great; you have to prove it. On your resume, make sure to include clear examples that highlight your achievements. Let them know about the situation, the tasks you needed to perform, the challenges you encountered, how you reached success, and the results of your work. Also, discuss any of the relevant skills involved in achieving the resolution, especially if they align with your target role.

By following the tips above, you can ensure your resume is doing you justice. If you would like to learn more about running an effective job search and finding open jobs in Michigan and Ohio, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our staff members today and see how our resume writing expertise can benefit you.

 

 

Changing Careers? Keep This in Mind!

HMG Success on March 18, 2019

 

Preparing for changing careers can be an exciting time, but it also comes with some challenges. After all, you are altering your life in a big way, and there may be some rough waters to navigate before you reach your destination.

Luckily, with a little preparation, you can smooth the transition. Here is what you need to keep in mind before changing careers.

Having Anxiety About Changing Careers Is Perfectly Normal

When you change careers, some anxiety is part of the experience. Even if you are happy about the switch, you will also have some doubts you need to conquer.

You may wonder whether you have made a mistake or if you are up to the challenge; that’s to be expected. This is a monumental change, but it is still important to trust that you are on the right path and focus on the potential successes that lie ahead. There may be a lot of learning involved, but you will pick it up. Remember, you did this when you started your last career, so don’t sell yourself short.

Mourning Your Old Job Is Also Normal

Changing careers means leaving something behind, and it is normal to have mixed feelings about the transition. You may miss aspects of your old job or wish you could still enjoy the company of your former co-workers. Even losing some of your sense of self is common, particularly since so much of a person’s identity is tied to what they do.

However, it is important to realize these feelings of sadness do not mean you have made a mistake. Inevitably, they will pass as you get more comfortable in your new role; it is just part of the transition process.

You Are Not Stuck in Your New Career

With any luck, you will adore your new career. However, if you don’t, that doesn’t mean you are stuck here or you made a mistake. Plus, if you did not give it a try, you might have regretted not going for it, and that is not something you could get over quickly.

Remember, just because you left your old career does not mean you can’t go back if that is what you want to do. Additionally, just because you have transitioned into something new doesn’t mean you can’t change careers again if it is not a great fit.

In the end, you will have a valuable learning experience no matter what. You will gain new skills and have a better idea of what you want, and that can make it easier to find an opportunity down the road that is genuinely a great fit.

Just make sure you do not give up on this new career too quickly. It will take a little time for you to get comfortable in your new role, so make sure you give it a fair shake before moving on.

If you are interested in learning more about changing careers, the staff at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our knowledgeable team members today and see how our career transition and planning expertise can benefit you.

 

 

Advance All Star!

HMG Success on March 15, 2019

We are looking for employees with great attendance,

a willingness to help others, a strong work ethic

and ability to work well with others!

 

When our client raved about Brian, we thought he was the perfect employee to kick off our program!

If you would like to become an Advance All Star too , apply now at advanced-group.instaging.io/.

 

Use These Tips to Make Safety Training Engaging

HMG Success on March 15, 2019

 

Engagement is critical for the learning process. If the material or approach do not capture the attention of your employees, your safety training will not be as effective. This could result in knowledge gaps, injuries, or worse, simply because your team was not giving the training their full attention.

Finding ways to make your safety training engaging is essential if you want to protect your workers and the company. If you do not know where to begin, here are some tips.

Find Your Priorities

Your training program should align with your safety priorities. Often, this requires a full risk assessment, ensuring you understand your biggest threats as well as which employees are most at risk.

Examine workspaces, tasks, equipment, processes, and anything else that can shine a light on potential issues within your company. As you perform your review, also look at any near misses that could indicate a problem even when there is not an actual injury associated with the event.

Then, you can target these points specifically during your training, ideally at the beginning of the session when everyone is most alert. This increases the odds your priorities will be addressed at a time when recall and retention capabilities are at their peak.

Select the Right Approach

Using the best training approach based on your employees’ preferences is a must. While some workers may be able to tolerate a long lecture, others will start to tune out fairly quickly, so it might not be the best option if you want to increase engagement. Similarly, not everyone thrives if you use computer solutions for independent learning, especially if they are distracted by their duties, face constant interruptions, or are not particularly tech-savvy.

Research different training options and see which one (or ones) best align with your company goals and your workers’ preferred learning styles. That way, you can select an approach that is more likely to engage your staff, increasing their recall and retention.

Make Safety Training Part of Your Culture

When workplace safety is an aspect of your culture, you do not have to rely on formal training to increase learning. Instead, make every accident, near miss, or issue a training opportunity, encouraging people to explore solutions and learn how they can avoid the problem in the future.

Inadvertently, this approach also promotes bite-sized training, which may be more digestible. Instead of long sessions, you are focusing on single topics for a short period, making it easier for employees to stay engaged during the discussion.

While this may not substitute for formal training, it can increase safety awareness quickly and efficiently, ensuring your workforce always has safety on their mind.

If you would like to know more about effective safety training options, the professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us for a free staffing consultation and see how our workplace safety expertise can benefit you.

 

 

Click for 5 Forklift Jobs Today

HMG Success on March 11, 2019

 

If you are looking for forklift jobs and need one quick, there are opportunities available today. Here are five forklift jobs worth exploring.

1. Warehouse – Temperance, MI

A rapidly growing company that focuses on the steel industry is looking for a warehouse worker with forklift experience. Along with forklift operation, you will also need to use an overhead crane, handle some light welding, and complete various other duties relating to the steel processing industry.

Positions are available on all three shifts, including 1st (7:00 am – 3:00 pm), 2nd (3:00 pm – 11:00 pm), and 3rd (11:00 pm – 7:00 am), Monday through Friday, giving you the ability to apply to the one that works best for you.

2. Forklift – Monroe, MI

If you enjoy a high-energy environment and prefer a four-day workweek, this forklift position may be ideal for you. You will load and unload trucks, handle materials, package products, and stage shipments.

The role is temp-to-hire and comes with a competitive pay rate. 1st and 2nd shift opportunities are available with a 4-10 schedule, though the ability to work overtime and weekends as necessary is a must.

3. Warehouse – Swanton, OH

An equine fence manufacturer is looking for a well-rounded warehouse candidate with forklift experience. The selected job seeker will pick and pack orders, so accuracy and attention to detail are a must.

You also need to be able to stand and walk for a full shift and lift up to 50 pounds regularly. Heavier lifting may also be a necessity as well as the opportunity to operate a forklift during the day.

4. Forklift – Monroe, WI

If you prefer a fast-paced, deadline-driven, rewarding team environment, this forklift opportunity could be just what you were hoping to find. The position begins as temp-to-hire with a competitive pay rate. Plus, if you are hired on permanently, you will get a raise.

There are current openings on the 1st and 2nd shift, Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm and 4:00 pm to 12:00 am, respectively. You may also have a chance to cross train into other areas, allowing you to broaden your skill set while on the job.

5. Warehouse – Bedford Township, MI

If you want to work for a great company that offers excellent benefits and growth potential, a fast-growing company is looking for warehouse professionals with forklift experience today. You will also need to use an overhead crane, handle some light welding, and assist with steel product production.

The ability to lift up to 50 pounds is also essential, and it’s important to note that the job can be physically demanding. The pay rate is competitive and is temp-to-hire, with the ability to land a raise when you go permanent.

All of the positions above are currently open and looking for the right forklift jobs. If you are interested in any of these roles or are seeking out other opportunities, the professionals at The Advance Group can help you explore your options. Contact us to learn more about our vacancies and see how our services can make your job search easier than ever before.

 

 

5 Signs You’re Ready for a New Ohio Job

HMG Success on March 8, 2019

 

Let’s face facts; it isn’t always easy to figure out if you should initiate a job search and seek out new opportunities. You want to make sure you are making a smart decision and, even if your current position is not great, feeling conflicted about leaving your current Ohio job is common.

However, there are some signs that suggest finding a new Ohio job is the best option. If you are toying with the idea of landing a new role, here are five signs making the transition is not a bad idea.

1. Heading to Work Fills You With Dread

While everyone has a few days from time to time where heading into work is the last thing they want to do, constant feelings of dread are never a good thing. If you are constantly telling yourself that you are just having a bad week, month, or year, but the situation never improves, finding something that does not make you feel that way is probably best if you want to preserve your well-being.

2. Your Boss Lacks Critical Knowledge

It is true that no one knows everything, and managers are no different. But, if your manager seems to have a knowledge gap in a critical area (one that relates to their department and their team’s jobs), then that is only going to breed frustration. When you do not trust that your boss has the ability to make a sound decision, you will likely be filled with doubt, anxiety, or feelings of anger. If you frequently question your manager’s competence, then moving on may be a wise choice.

3. The Company Is Poised to Fail

While no company is guaranteed to succeed year after year, once the writing is on the wall, sticking it out can be a horrible decision. Hanging on to a failing employer doesn’t just increase your stress levels; it can also lead to unemployment for a period. If you genuinely feel the business is going to crash and burn, you need to set aside your feelings of loyalty and seek out a new opportunity. Otherwise, you may face more competition when you and your co-workers are out of a job, making it harder to secure something new.

4. You Hate Your Duties

Loving every minute of your job isn’t usually possible, but hating all of your work is a sign you should start a job search. Being passionate about what you do increases job satisfaction and makes it easier to perform at your best. Whether you need to find a new opportunity in your field or completely change careers may depend on how you feel, but exploring your options is a good idea.

5. You Can’t Move Forward

Having chances to learn, grow and advance are critical for the health of your career. If your current employer has you stuck in a dead-end role, you need to take action if you want to move forward. The only exception is when you hit a career peak, when it would be okay to not have some of these opportunities. Otherwise, do your career a favor and see what else may be available.

Ultimately, any of the signs above could indicate that you are ready for a new Ohio job. If you want to explore your options, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to learn more about our current vacancies and see how our career management expertise can benefit you, or browse our open jobs today.

 

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