Why Grammar Matters in Your Job Search

HMG Success on March 26, 2018

During a job search, your first impression on the hiring manager is usually made in writing, as most employers are introduced to candidates through their resumes and cover letters. Since these initial impressions are so important, using proper grammar and punctuation are a necessity, particularly since incorrect usage can change the meaning of your writing.

Writing effective business communications, including resumes, isn’t always easy, especially since there are so many rules to follow. To help you make the best impression possible, here are some common mistakes job seekers make on their applications and how to avoid them.

It’s vs. Its

A surprising number of people struggle when it comes to properly using “it’s” and “its.” Much of the confusion revolves around how most possessive pronouns are structured as “it” doesn’t follow the common pattern.

“It’s” is intended to be used as a contraction only, reflecting a shortened version of the phrase “it is” or “it has.” The possessive form is “its.”

There, They’re, and Their

One of the most confusing homophone sets is “there,” “they’re,” and “their,” and many job seekers chose the wrong one.

“They’re” is a contraction, representing “they are,” while “their” is the possessive, reflecting ownership. “There” is traditionally used when referring to a location, serving as an introductory pronoun or an adverb.

Comma Splices

A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses (phrases that could stand on their own as sentences, with each clause containing both a subject and a verb) are separated by a comma but are not linked by a coordinating conjunction, such as “and” or “but.”

While a comma splice may not seem too severe initially, it does represent a grammar error involving improper punctuation. Generally, the easiest way to resolve the issue is to either create two separate sentences, separated by a period, or use a semicolon instead of a comma between the clauses.

Apostrophes

Generally, an apostrophe is only necessary when forming a contraction, such as “aren’t,” or when showing possession (except for with the pronoun “it”). In the vast majority of cases, an apostrophe is not required when making plurals

The only major exception most job seekers will encounter, in regards to plurals, is when referring to letters. For example, “I received straight A’s throughout my college career,” is an appropriate time to use an apostrophe for a plural.

Affect vs. Effect

When choosing between “affect” and “effect,” it is important to think of “affect” as a verb, or action word, and “effect” as a noun, representing an event or thing. For example, the quality of your resume affects your success rate, and the effect of a great resume is that you could be hired.

For those who tend to struggle with grammar rules, it’s wise to use software to review your writing and have it reviewed by someone you trust. Grammar checks are not foolproof, so having someone else take a look can help you catch more mistakes before you submit your application.

If you are looking for a new position this year, the professionals at The Advance Group can help make sure your resume is in order while connecting you with top employers in the area. Contact us today to see how our services can help you during your job search.

This Huge Mistake Is Why You’re Unhappy at Work

HMG Success on March 23, 2018

When most professionals burn the candle at both ends, they often muse about taking a vacation. The problem is, even if we know some time away from the workplace will do us some good, many people hesitate to schedule the time, causing them to feel unhappy at work.

In fact, one recent survey showed only about half of all employees actually use all of the vacation leave they earned, and the number of workers choosing to forgo time away is on the rise. But not taking time off has consequences, like feeling unhappy at work. Here’s what you need to know.

Why We Skip Vacations

In most cases, employees don’t use their leave for one reason: Fear. Usually, this revolves around concerns about falling behind at work, or that they won’t be perceived as a team player since they chose to take some time for themselves.

But having some downtime is important for both morale and long-term productivity, as feeling trapped at work can easily become disheartening. Plus, never stepping away from your duties can lead to burnout, affecting the quality of your work and your overall wellbeing.

How to Get Over Your Fear

If you’ve fallen into the habit of not using all your vacation days, there are things you can do to make yourself more comfortable with the idea. First, try to schedule a short vacation instead of one that lasts for a week or more. Start with a long weekend and see how it goes, then consider a longer vacation once you are more confident in your ability to be away.

Another approach that can alleviate many of the anxieties associated with being away is to team up with another co-worker, or a few, and create plans for covering each other’s duties. This can include pre-vacation meetings, giving you an opportunity to discuss critical projects and must-dos, as well as training one another to provide the needed coverage.

You also need to control any urges to check in at work by preparing in advance. For example, informing customers in advance about your absence, as well as who they can reach out to should they need assistance, is a great start. Also, if you absolutely must touch base at work, limit these communications to specific times, unless an actual emergency occurs.

Finally, make sure your workspace is clean and organized before you leave on vacation. This step reduces the amount of stress you may feel when you return to work, essentially giving you a fresh start.

By using the tips above, you can make the most of your vacation while feeling confident that everything is being handled properly while you are away. That way, you can relax and recharge during your time off, making you a better employee upon your return.

If you are interested in learning more or are seeking a new position, the professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us today to see how our expertise can benefit you and stop you from feeling unhappy at work.

The Thank-You Note You Need to Send After an Interview

HMG Success on March 16, 2018

When you know you have nailed an interview, the feeling you get is hard to beat. But, even if you have a strong inclination to believe they are going to offer you the position, that doesn’t mean your work is done.

While it’s perfectly fine to take a moment and revel in the excitement, or even contact a friend, family member, or member of your network to let them know how it went, you also need to prepare for your next critical step in the hiring process: The thank-you note.

Even if it isn’t a formal requirement for getting a job, sending a well-crafted thank-you note allows you to express your appreciation to the hiring manager while ensuring you leave a great final impression before they make a decision. If you aren’t sure where to begin, here are some tips for writing an exceptional thank-you note.

Address the Hiring Manager by Name

Since you met with the person directly, you should know their name, so make sure to include it in the salutation. If you interviewed with a panel, it is wise to create a separate email for each person, giving you a chance to address them specifically instead of as part of a group.

Show Appreciation

Once the greeting is in place, it’s time for the opening paragraph. Here, you should show your gratitude for meeting with you, taking the time to answer your questions, and letting you discuss the company and position.

To make this paragraph pop, start by saying it was nice to meet them, thank them for their time, and express your excitement about the role or workplace, such as “This seems like a great role/company.” Then close with a sentence that mentions something you appreciated specifically. For example, you could say, “I particularly loved learning about [an interesting point about the role or company].” This adds a small level of detail that many other thank-you notes lack, helping to set you apart from other candidates.

Assert Your Interest in Learning More

The second, and final, paragraph should reiterate your interest in not just the job, but the company as a whole. For example, you can begin by saying, “I look forward to hearing from you about this exciting opportunity or any other openings [in the department/with the company] that match my skills and experience.”

Use the Write Closing

As you prepare to sign off, make sure you close the email properly. You can choose to write “thank you” before adding your name, or a simple “sincerely” will do the trick. Alternatively, “best regards” may be appropriate, as well as “gratefully.”

The point is to keep it professional and appropriate, so choose an option that most accurately coincides with the nature of the relationship.

Send It Quickly

In most cases, it only takes a few minutes to craft a great thank-you email, so make sure to send one off within a few hours of your interview ending. That way, you won’t have to worry about forgetting, and the hiring manager can receive a quick reminder as to why you are such a great candidate.

If you want to learn more or are looking for a new position, the professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us today to see how our services can work for you.

Looking for Jobs NOW? Here’s Why You Should Sign Up for Job Alerts!

HMG Success on March 9, 2018

Most job seekers quickly become aware of how time-consuming finding a new position can become. Running searches on job board and social media isn’t always a quick process, particularly if you use multiple sites in hopes of finding the ideal role. Luckily, there is one technique that can significantly speed up your job hunting activities: Job alerts.

If you haven’t used job alerts before, here’s why you should get started today.

It’s Convenient

At its core, a job alert is an email or push notification that lets you know when a position that meets your criteria becomes available on a specific site. When you create one, you set a variety of parameters, such as job titles, industries, companies, location, and minimum pay rates. Then, the system automatically lets you know when a new role is posted that meets your criteria, alleviating the need for you to run the search yourself every day.

Once a job alert is sent, you can peruse the details and decide if you want to apply, using the same application process as would be required if you located the job through other means.

It’s Simple

Setting up a job alert isn’t a complicated process. Most sites will walk you through the process, asking you the proper questions and letting you select options to narrow the results.

Plus, if a job alert isn’t producing the ideal set of results, you can always alter it to better suit your needs. Since you need to strike a balance between specificity, ensuring the results are relevant, and flexibility, making sure you don’t screen out potentially beneficial opportunities, this lets you fine-tune your job alert with relative ease.

Many sites will also allow you to set up multiple job alerts, giving you the ability to choose parameters based on a variety of scenarios, which can be a preferred approach if you are somewhat flexible about certain requirements, like the included industries or job titles.

It’s Available Every Day

Most job alerts allow you to select how often you receive the email that contains the compiled information, but choosing the daily option is generally the best approach. This ensures you are quickly notified about new opportunities, which is especially important for coveted roles, allowing you to apply as fast as possible.

Signing up for a daily alert also makes sure you stay on top of your job search activities, as you’ll have a reminder coming directly to your inbox almost every day. The only time you won’t get an alert is if nothing new has been posted that meets your criteria. While this happening on occasion may be expected, not receiving an email for a few days in a row can also be a signal you need to update your parameters to be more flexible.

If you are looking for a new position, the professionals at The Advance Group can connect you with some of today’s leading employers. Plus, The Advance Group’s site offers job alerts, letting you automate a portion of your search too. Contact us today to see how our services and job alerts can benefit you, or click here to sign up for our job alerts right now.

Become an Accountant With This Advice

HMG Success on March 2, 2018

For many people, the idea to become an accountant is particularly enticing. But figuring out where to begin isn’t always easy, particularly if you don’t know anyone who already works in the field. Luckily, with a bit of work, nearly anyone who is dedicated to starting this career path can do so successfully. Here’s some advice that will help you become an accountant.

Education

Nearly every accounting position is going to require a base level of education, most typically a bachelor’s degree, making this a critical first step for becoming an accountant. Most major colleges and universities will offer a degree that directly applies to accounting roles, be it specifically in accounting or a related field. For those who don’t live near a school, online degrees are also available at a number of institutions.

It is important to note that additional education beyond a bachelor’s degree may be required, depending on your target specialty. However, it is often possible to become a CPA without a graduate degree, as long as you can meet the requirements and pass the exams to become licensed.

Internships

While you might not be required to complete an internship to earn your degree, it is a great way to get real-world experience in the field, and also works as a method for building your accounting resume. Usually, you will work part-time, either for pay or not, in an accounting firm or department, assisting with entry-level tasks and learning about the profession.

Internships are also an excellent method for exploring various specialties, as you can examine a role up close and determine if it seems right for you and your career.

Networking

When it comes to starting any new career path, it pays to begin networking early. This can include connecting with students and faculty members while you earn your degree, staying in touch with contacts from your internship, joining local professional organizations, or simply reaching out to other accountants on social media.

By building a strong network, you can learn about job opportunities that aren’t advertised publicly. It is also an ideal way to find someone who can serve as a mentor, helping to guide you as you take the first steps down your career path.

Secure an Entry-Level Job

As you prepare to graduate, it’s time to start looking for your first accounting position. You can add the degree to your resume ahead of time, noting the actual date you’ll earn your degree, and include details from your internships to help demonstrate your skills and experience.

Often, you’ll have access to job-placement services through your school, though branching out and using other resources is wise. This can include updating your LinkedIn profile to show you are seeking work, searching through job boards, and working with a local staffing agency that is well-connected in your community.

If you are ready to become an accountant, the professionals at The Advance Group can connect you with leading employers in the area. Contact us today to see how our services can help get your accounting career off to the right start.

Yes, You Can Negotiate Your Temp Job Salary

HMG Success on February 26, 2018

Some job seekers figure their options are limited when it comes to the salary associated with a temp job, thinking they don’t have the ability to negotiate their temp job salary. But, that simply isn’t the case.

While some companies may have a particular pay rate in mind, others are open to paying a higher wage than is originally offered, especially if your request is justified. If you want to negotiate your temp job salary, here’s what you need to know.

Learn the Going Rate

Before you approach the subject, it’s wise to do a little research to determine what salary is typically achievable for similar kinds of work. You can begin by performing internet searches related to the job title, required skills, or even the company and its competitors.

Knowing what is usually offered for similar work in your area lets you discover whether the pay rate being proposed is within the norms, a point which may make negotiating unwise. However, if it is clear they are below the average, then use your research as justification for your request.

Highlight What You Have to Offer

Even if the position typically comes with a higher salary, you need to demonstrate the skills and experience you have acquired are worth the extra money. Generally, this means being able to clearly articulate how you bring additional value to the role and how that will benefit the company for which you will be working.

Ideally, you want to be able to quantify this information, presenting hard data as to how and why you are worth the additional money. This helps solidify your case, making the company more likely to consider making a higher offer.

Work With Your Recruiter

While it may be tempting to speak to the company directly, often, when you’re in a temp position, you are an employee of the recruitment agency, and not the business itself. This means that all of your initial contact should be with your recruiter when you want to negotiate your temp job salary.

Bypassing the recruiter can have negative repercussions, including a retraction of the offer, so don’t give in to temptation and only speak with a representative of the company if the recruiter makes the introduction or receives explicit permission for you to proceed.

Additionally, the recruiter may have further information regarding why that specific pay rate was offered, providing you with valuable insight. They can also let you know if an attempt to renegotiate may be successful, as they often have a strong relationship with the companies they associate with and might have knowledge about how previous attempts were received.

Ultimately, you do have the option to negotiate your salary for a temp job, so don’t automatically assume it is off the table just because the position is long-term. You can also choose not to accept the position if the pay rate doesn’t meet your needs, and continue your search for a role that is more in line with your salary requirements.

Negotiate Your Temp Salary with the Leading Employment Agency in Toledo

Considering a temp job? The Advance Group is a proven leader among temporary employment agencies in Toledo, OH. Our recruiters can connect you with the top manufacturing, warehouse, and general labor employers in Ohio. Connect with The Advance Group to see how our temp services in Toledo can work for you and how we can help you negotiate your temp job salary.

Browse our Toledo temp jobs and apply today!

Working with Difficult People? Make the Situation Easier with This Advice

HMG Success on February 23, 2018

Typically, one of the most challenging parts of any job is working with other, potentially difficult people, even if you all generally get along. But, when a co-worker is particularly difficult, the situation quickly becomes more stressful, making it hard to get tasks completed or simply remain in a good mood.

While you can’t necessarily escape the situation entirely, you do have options to make it more manageable. With that in mind, here are some tips for working with difficult people you can start using today.

Make Validating Their Feelings the First Thing You Do

Most of us have encountered a scenario where a co-worker is frustratingly passive-aggressive or generally takes out their anger on those around them, regardless of whether you were responsible for their current situation. While it is easy to react to them in kind, allowing your own stress levels to escalate with theirs, a better approach is empathy.

For example, instead of reacting to their frustration, consider why they may be feeling this way and try to see things from their perspective. Then, instead of pushing back immediately, offer them some validation by letting them know that you understand their feelings.

Often, this helps you shift your attitude, moving to a place of empathy instead of anger. Plus, by feeling understood, your co-worker may also begin to calm, allowing them to change their attitude as well.

Make Your Needs Clear

If a co-worker is being combative instead of constructive during a conversation, it’s easy for tensions to mount, leaving everyone angry. However, you can prevent this from occurring by succinctly expressing your needs in relation to the situation.

For example, if your co-worker says they hate your idea, feel free to let them know a statement like that doesn’t help you improve and that you would prefer specific feedback regarding the idea so that you can reach a resolution that suits everyone.

Ultimately, this involves letting others know what does or doesn’t work for you while being assertive as you discuss your point. It also includes an explanation as to why the approaching isn’t effective, as well as a simple resolution that allows everyone to get back on the right track.

Learn to Say “No”

Some people have a tendency toward being people-pleasers and, if someone takes advantage of that, it can quickly breed resentment and frustration. However, the person who needs to act in these situations is you, by learning to say no and setting reasonable boundaries when a request is simply more than you can handle.

Ideally, you want to say now, provide a concise explanation as to why it doesn’t work for you, and potentially offer an alternative, but only if one exists that meets your needs as well. It can take time to get comfortable with saying “no,” but it is definitely worth the effort.

If you are interested in learning more or are hoping to find a new position with less difficult people, the professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us today to see how our services and expertise can work for you.

These “Dumb” Interview Questions Are Pretty Intelligent

HMG Success on February 16, 2018

Sometimes, when given the opportunity at the end of an interview, job seekers are reluctant to ask certain interview questions. They fear that they are “dumb,” making them worry that the hiring manager will form a negative perception of them simply by bringing them up.

Many of them focus on clichés, something that most people work hard to avoid. But, these questions can actually provide candidates with important information, making them wise choices in the end. If you are concerned about which questions to ask, here are some “dumb” interview questions that are actually pretty intelligent.

“What Do You Like Most About Working Here?”

Yes, this question can seem trite and commonplace, but it actually gives you a great opportunity to learn more about the company’s culture or their most exciting projects. When responding to this question, hiring managers may discuss their staff, co-workers, or the leadership team. They might bring up the work environment. In some cases, they’ll talk about an innovation that is in the works.

Regardless of their response, you’ll likely learn something along the way. And, if the hiring manager struggles to provide an answer, or resorts to a short, canned response, it could be an indication of trouble in the department or the company as a whole, giving you details about a potential red flag you may have otherwise missed.

“What’s a Typical Day Like in This Position?”

It may seem banal, asking about how a day usually proceeds, but it is actually an incredibly helpful thing to asks and suggests you are eager to envision yourself in the role. Aside from expressing a level of excitement, you get a chance to learn about common expectations and tasks, which may not be as enticing as the big projects the hiring manager used to sell you on the role. It also gives you insight into daily operations, like how many meetings may occur or which mundane tasks fall under your purview.

Generally, a realistic answer to this question isn’t going to increase your level of enthusiasm, but understanding the day-to-day makes it easier for you to ascertain whether the job is actually right for you.

“Do You Have Any Concerns About My Qualifications?”

Many job seekers shy away from this question because it seems to open the door to criticism, which is something no one typically wants to hear. But, it also creates an outstanding opportunity, allowing you to both listen to their concerns and address them.

It does require a level of vulnerability, and a willingness to discuss your weakness, but you also get the chance to address points that could potentially prevent you from receiving an offer head-on.

Ultimately, any interview questions that give you a chance to learn more about the company shouldn’t be considered “dumb,” particularly if the information isn’t available on the organization’s website and the specific point wasn’t discussed during the interview. That means you shouldn’t be afraid to ask the question if it is truly something you want to know. It may be a smarter move than you think.

If you are looking for a new position, the professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us today to learn more about how our services can benefit you.

All Ohio Engineers Need These 5 Skills

HMG Success on February 9, 2018

Engineers often have a broad range of duties, and their contributions are typically deemed critical for daily operations. Without competent engineers, a company may struggle with their equipment and technology, harming productivity and even potentially creating dangerous situations.

While each engineering role will differ, creating nuances in the required skill sets, certain skills are essential for nearly every engineer. With that in mind, here are five skills engineers need to be successful in their career.

1. Attention to Detail

Many engineering roles require meticulous concentration and an appreciation for the smallest details, including while working to solve an equipment problem or when helping determine what is needed for a new project. Even minor errors can have catastrophic results, and this makes attention to detail particularly important for all engineers, regardless of the industry in which they operate.

2. Problem Solving

When something goes wrong with a piece of equipment, engineers are often tasked with identifying the issue and finding a suitable solution. While some malfunctions are fairly cut and dry, others require strong problem-solving skills to address, particularly when under pressure.

3. Creativity

Whether used as a supplement to problem-solving skills or a method for streamlining operations, improving performance, and innovating new solutions, creativity is a valuable asset for engineers. Sometimes, an easy answer isn’t available, making ingenuity necessary to reach a point of resolution. Additionally, being able to develop new options is incredibly helpful, especially if they can increase profits or reduce costs.

4. Communication

Most engineers work with other professionals on projects, so they regularly encounter others who don’t have the same level of specialized knowledge. It isn’t uncommon for engineers to have to convey complex information in a way that those who are less savvy can understand, and this requires strong communication skills. Additionally, they need to update stakeholders on any progress made on issues as they occur, something that makes the ability to communicate coherently a necessity.

5. Mathematics

While the precise nature of the math can vary, most engineers need a solid understanding of mathematics based on the duties they perform. This can include calculations involving fractions to ensure enough materials are acquired to handle a repair to complex formulas to create solid performance estimates.

This doesn’t mean all engineers need high-level math skills, such as an understanding of calculus or trigonometry, but being competent in algebra and geometry isn’t an uncommon requirement.

Ultimately, every engineering role is different, so a variety of specialty skills are also often necessary to be successful in a particular job. However, those listed above are common for most engineers, no matter what industry in which they work or the company that hires them.

If you are interested in finding an engineering position or are looking to add a new engineer to your staff, the professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to learn more about what we have to offer and to discover how our services can benefit you.

10 Open Jobs in Michigan Today

HMG Success on February 2, 2018

If you are interested in finding any open jobs in Michigan, there are certainly plenty of them available. Here are just a few of the positions that we are working to fill right now.

1. Machine Adjuster

Mechanically inclined job seekers may enjoy a position focused on machine setup, operation, cleaning and maintenance, ensuring the facility remains functional and productive.

2. Welder

If you have welding experience, then you may qualify for a welder position in the Dundee area. The company manufactures automotive tracks and is interested in finding a skilled worker who can join their team for the long-term.

3. Warehouse Worker

Multiple opportunities are available for experienced warehouse workers, including positions in cities like Monroe and Dundee. Common job duties include loading and unloading trucks, assisting with inventory, product assembly, and home deliveries.

4. Press Operator

For job seekers with machine operating experience or who consider themselves mechanically inclined, a Dundee company is looking for press operators who want to be part of their team. The position has the potential to be long-term and even result in permanent employment. Plus, opportunities to train on other equipment, such as an overhead crane, may also be part of the job.

5. Production Workers

A recycling company in the Belleville area is looking for production workers to help with tasks like sorting scrap metal. Ideally, applicants should have at least one year of experience in a manufacturing environment, and be interested in possibly being hired on permanently.

6. CAD Programmer

A reputable company in Temperance is hoping to find a skilled CAD Programming Specialist to draw nest blanks for 2-D CNC equipment, ensuring the maximum utilization of each plate and that the proper sheet is selected. CAD experience is requirement for the role, as well as strong communication and organizational skills.

7. Manufacturing Engineer

If you have extensive knowledge and experience with manufacturing equipment, as well as an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, then a company in Lenawee County would love to hear from you. Three to five years of experience is required, and relocation assistance may be available to someone with the right expertise.

8. Industrial Cleaning

A company in Monroe is looking for a teamwork-oriented professional to join their team of industrial cleaning professionals. The position is considered entry-level, so no prior experience is required, and it also has the potential to go long-term.

9. Field Service Technician

If you live near the Wixom area and have mechanical knowledge and problem-solving skills, you may qualify for a field service technician position. The company is very customer-oriented, and you would have an opportunity to help them maintain a superior level of customer service with each and every interaction.

10. Customer Service

A manufacturing company is looking for customer service representatives to join their team, helping to track shipments, communicate with carriers, resolve delays, and handle customer issues. The position is part-time and all interested applicants must have at least one year of experience in the logistics field to qualify, along with computer experience, particularly with Microsoft Excel, and strong phone skills.

If you are interested in any of these positions or would like to learn about other open jobs in Michigan, the team at The Advance Group want to hear from you. Contact us today to see if you qualify for any of these open jobs in Michigan and to learn how our services can work for you.

Want to Land an Administrative Position? Read This!

HMG Success on January 26, 2018

Many job seekers like the idea of working in an administrative position. Typically, these roles are office-based and can help you build a strong foundation for a professional career. However, how to get started in this profession isn’t as clear as some others, particularly since entry-level jobs may list very few requirements. If you are interested in landing an administrative position, here’s what you need to know.

Education Requirements Vary

Many administrative roles are considered entry-level, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be some educational requirements listed in the vacancy announcement.

Some administrative assistant or secretary positions require only a high school diploma, as this generally shows that you have the knowledge necessary to write professionally and operate a computer. However, competition for these positions can be high, so having additional training, like an associate degree or diploma from a secretarial skills program, can help set you apart from the pack.

Other positions may list an associate’s degree as a requirement, and some even require a bachelor’s degree, especially if the role is focused on a specialty, like legal secretaries or medical administrative assistants. You may also need to have knowledge of specific software programs, like QuickBooks, or have skills in areas like web development, which may require applicable coursework or prior experience.

Ultimately, it is possible to land an administrative position with just a high school diploma, but going above and beyond that will likely be beneficial to your career.

Make Sure Your Resume and Cover Letter Are Perfect

Administrative professionals often create communications in writing, ranging from emails and newsletters to presentations and marketing material. Since written communication plays such a large role in an admin’s daily duties, having spelling or grammar mistakes on your resume or cover letter can hurt your chances of being invited in for an interview.

Before you submit a resume, make sure to review it carefully. This can include proofreading it yourself and using software, like spelling and grammar checks, to identify errors that need to be corrected. It’s also smart to have someone else review your application, as a fresh set of eyes may spot mistakes that you overlooked.

Similarly, if you have a LinkedIn profile, you should take the time to make sure that it is also well written and error free. Otherwise, the additional effort you put into your resume and cover letter may not have the desired impact if your LinkedIn profile is riddled with mistakes.

Highlight Your Value

Many administrative positions focus on making other professionals’ lives easier at work, so showing that you are capable of supporting the manager, executive, or team is crucial. Ultimately, you want to demonstrate your skills and experience will contribute to the accomplishments of others, as that is something that a hiring manager will likely deem valuable.

If you are looking for an administrative position, the professionals at The Advance Group can help you explore your options. Contact us today to learn more about our available jobs and see how our services can work for you.

Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired This Year with One Tip

HMG Success on January 19, 2018

At the end of nearly every interview comes the inevitable question from the hiring manager: “Do you have any questions for me?”

While some job seekers hesitate to ask anything, this should actually be viewed as an opportunity, and one that shouldn’t be passed up, particularly since failing to do so can seriously hurt your chances of getting hired.

Asking a smart question at the close of an interview can help you stand out as a candidate and make getting hired simple. How do you craft an intelligent inquiry? Here are some tips to get you started.

Focus on the Right Points

A strong question is going to tap into one of four areas: Connection, culture, challenges, and closing in on the next steps. Ultimately, you want to bond with the hiring manager over your final ask, work to understand what working for the organization is like, identify any challenges the company is facing, or gain additional information about what comes next.

You don’t have to cover all of those points in a single question, but any inquiry that touches on one of those points can be a valuable one to ask.

The One Question to Ask

If you find yourself struggling to come up with a suitable question, there is one that almost always makes a great impression. When in doubt, ask, “What is the organization’s biggest threat to success currently, and how can I help you overcome this threat in this role?”

By asking this question, the hiring manager has an opportunity to discuss how the job can add the most value to the business, giving you critical insights into how to excel in the position. Plus, it starts a dialog where you can provide additional input, including references to how your past experience can make overcoming the challenge easier.

This allows you to talk about points that truly matter to the hiring manager and organization in the moment while increasing their level of confidence in your abilities.

You don’t have to limit yourself to this single question, as it generally works well in conjunction with other inquiries that allow you to gather important information about the company’s priorities, what the culture is like, and how the role fits into the bigger picture.

However, it is essential to be mindful of the time when you begin asking questions, as you want to make sure that everything is finished up within your allotted appointment time. This means you should start with the questions you (and they) view as the most critical, so you can wrap things up in a timely manner.

If you are looking for a job this year, the professionals at The Advance Group can assist you in preparing smart questions while connecting you with top employers in the area. Contact us today to learn more about how our services can work for you. You’ll be getting hired in no time.