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How to Network (When You Have No Time to Network)

Raza Rauf on October 13, 2017

 

When it comes down to it, most people are pressed for time. If you’re already juggling work and home life obligations, how on earth are you supposed to squeeze in networking, too?

We all know that networking is important; it helps you make connections with other professionals and may give you avenues for furthering your career. But many people maintain the perception that they don’t have time available to network, when that isn’t truly the case. Luckily, for those feeling the time crunch, there are techniques that make fitting networking into even the busiest schedules a breeze. Here are a few ways that can help you get started today.

Think Small

In most cases, when people think of networking, they picture large events that take hours out of their day. While conferences and meetings can be excellent networking opportunities, they aren’t your only option.

Instead of concentrating on big events, turn your attention to smaller actions that are easier to fit into your daily activities. For example, reaching out to other professionals online can be done in five-minute blocks, making it simpler to integrate into your life. You can send an email during your lunch or comment on a social media post while you’re on break.

All the little efforts add up, so don’t assume you need to dedicate hours every week when a few minutes every day can make a lot of difference.

See Any Gathering as an Opportunity to Network

Another issue with focusing on large, professional events for networking is that you may be missing out on natural opportunities that occur throughout your life. For example, time spent with friends and family can actually be used for networking, especially if you know other professionals. They may have connections you can benefit from, so getting input from the people in your life could create new opportunities.

Similarly, casual activities like getting your morning cup of coffee or taking an elevator in a shared building can lead to chances to network. If you frequently cross paths with particular people, consider introducing yourself and finding out more about who they are and what they do. You never know who that person behind you in line at the café is unless you ask, so consider it a chance to expand your network and say “hello.”

Make It a Habit

Once you’ve identified small actions that can help you network more effectively, it’s time to truly dedicate yourself to the process. Doing little things every day spreads out the burden many people associate with networking. It makes the load easier because it breaks it up into manageable pieces.

By making it a habit, you can create workable patterns that don’t interrupt the flow of your life while still letting you get the job done.

If you’re looking for additional information about networking or would like assistance with your job search, the recruiters at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to see how connecting with the members of our team can help your career move forward.

 

 

Can Your Current Employer Be Your Job Reference?

HMG Success on October 9, 2017

 

When you’re looking for a new job, you can expect prospective employers to ask if they can contact your current manager for a reference. But deciding whether to give them permission isn’t easy, depending on your circumstances. Often, job seekers try to keep their search for a new position private, and allowing the potential employer to contact your company is a sure-fire way for word to get out. Luckily, there are ways to navigate this tricky territory.

Understand the Ball Is in Your Court

First and foremost, you need to realize you have all the power in this equation. Yes, a prospective employer would like to contact your company for a reference, but most understand if you’re trying to keep them from finding out that you’re looking for a new position. That means you can generally say “no” without a high chance of negative repercussions.

If you aren’t comfortable with them calling for a reference now, but are open to it later, you can state that, while you are trying to keep your job search private at this time, you would be open to them contacting your current employer once a job offer is made. This would give you an opportunity to tell your manager personally that you’ve found another position, but lets the hiring manager access the information when the time is right.

What If Your Employer Knows You’re Job Searching?

In some cases, you may feel comfortable letting your employer know you are looking for a new position. For example, if your job is seasonal and layoffs are just around the corner, or you are working a contract position that is almost complete, you might not find the need to keep your efforts a secret. The same situation can occur in situations where your manager already knows you’re planning on leaving, which can happen if they know you are moving to a new city on a specific date, for example.

If your employer is aware of your job search, there’s no reason they can’t be a reference, as long as you’re certain their review of your performance and capabilities will be positive.

Similarly, if your manager doesn’t know you are looking for a new position, but a co-worker does, you could consider offering their information for a reference. However, it’s important that you only go that route if you are certain they won’t inform anyone else when that call comes through.

Ultimately, you are never required to provide your current employer as a reference, and most hiring managers will understand if you want to keep your job search private for the time being. By giving them the opportunity to contact your workplace at a later date, such as when an employment offer is on the table, you can demonstrate you have nothing to hide from them and that you’re just trying to preserve your relationship with the manager you report to today.

If you are interested in learning more or are looking for a new position, the recruiters at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to discuss how our services can assist you with your career goals today.

 

 

Can Your Current Employer Be Your Job Reference?

Raza Rauf on October 9, 2017

 

When you’re looking for a new job, you can expect prospective employers to ask if they can contact your current manager for a reference. But deciding whether to give them permission isn’t easy, depending on your circumstances. Often, job seekers try to keep their search for a new position private, and allowing the potential employer to contact your company is a sure-fire way for word to get out. Luckily, there are ways to navigate this tricky territory.

Understand the Ball Is in Your Court

First and foremost, you need to realize you have all the power in this equation. Yes, a prospective employer would like to contact your company for a reference, but most understand if you’re trying to keep them from finding out that you’re looking for a new position. That means you can generally say “no” without a high chance of negative repercussions.

If you aren’t comfortable with them calling for a reference now, but are open to it later, you can state that, while you are trying to keep your job search private at this time, you would be open to them contacting your current employer once a job offer is made. This would give you an opportunity to tell your manager personally that you’ve found another position, but lets the hiring manager access the information when the time is right.

What If Your Employer Knows You’re Job Searching?

In some cases, you may feel comfortable letting your employer know you are looking for a new position. For example, if your job is seasonal and layoffs are just around the corner, or you are working a contract position that is almost complete, you might not find the need to keep your efforts a secret. The same situation can occur in situations where your manager already knows you’re planning on leaving, which can happen if they know you are moving to a new city on a specific date, for example.

If your employer is aware of your job search, there’s no reason they can’t be a reference, as long as you’re certain their review of your performance and capabilities will be positive.

Similarly, if your manager doesn’t know you are looking for a new position, but a co-worker does, you could consider offering their information for a reference. However, it’s important that you only go that route if you are certain they won’t inform anyone else when that call comes through.

Ultimately, you are never required to provide your current employer as a reference, and most hiring managers will understand if you want to keep your job search private for the time being. By giving them the opportunity to contact your workplace at a later date, such as when an employment offer is on the table, you can demonstrate you have nothing to hide from them and that you’re just trying to preserve your relationship with the manager you report to today.

If you are interested in learning more or are looking for a new position, the recruiters at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to discuss how our services can assist you with your career goals today.

 

 

5 Skills Assemblers Need

HMG Success on October 6, 2017

 

If you enjoy a fast-paced work environment, the idea of getting a job as an assembler is likely very appealing. These workers help keep a production line moving by connecting various parts and pieces of the final product, which can be very gratifying work for those who like to see the physical results of their efforts.

To be successful in an assembly position, you do need certain core competencies. Here are five skills every assembler needs to possess.

1. Teamwork

Most production lines aren’t one-man shows; they require a team of skilled workers to get the job done. As an assembler, you’re going to be a part of a larger team, and knowing how to work well with others will help you progress in your career. Often, this includes being willing and able to do your part, as well as wanting to help others when the need arises.

2. Attention to Detail

When you are assembling pieces, you need to make sure everything is put together correctly. Small errors in the construction of the final product can lead to serious issues down the line or may lead the item to fail to function properly.

Assemblers need to be detail oriented to make sure that everything comes together as it should, so this skill is often considered a necessity.

3. Manual Dexterity

Assembly work is typically a manual process. You may be putting pieces together by hand or using a variety of hand tools, so manual dexterity is a must. Fine motor control and strong hand-eye coordination are also helpful, as they make adapting to the physical components of the job easier.

4. Focus

Generally, the pace at a production facility is quick. Since attention to detail is so important, and you have to keep up with the speed of the line, being able to maintain focus for extended periods is critical. This will help you get your tasks done in a timely fashion, which keeps the line moving, and ensures everything is put together properly – even when you are moving quickly.

5. Self Motivation

While assemblers are often expected to meet certain performance metrics, such as completing a specific number of pieces during a shift, it’s unlikely someone is going to be standing over your shoulder to keep you on task. This means you need to be a self-motivated individual who can monitor their own performance and make adjustments as required.

Yes, failing to meet the production standards during a shift will be noticed, so it’s not that you won’t receive direction. However, keeping yourself on target may largely fall on your shoulders, so being self motivated is an important trait.

If you possess all the skills above, it’s likely a career as an assembler could be right for you. If you are interested in learning more about assembly positions in your area, the team at The Advance Group wants to hear from you. Contact us to see which leading employers are hiring today.

 

 

5 Skills Assemblers Need

Raza Rauf on October 6, 2017

 

If you enjoy a fast-paced work environment, the idea of getting a job as an assembler is likely very appealing. These workers help keep a production line moving by connecting various parts and pieces of the final product, which can be very gratifying work for those who like to see the physical results of their efforts.

To be successful in an assembly position, you do need certain core competencies. Here are five skills every assembler needs to possess.

1. Teamwork

Most production lines aren’t one-man shows; they require a team of skilled workers to get the job done. As an assembler, you’re going to be a part of a larger team, and knowing how to work well with others will help you progress in your career. Often, this includes being willing and able to do your part, as well as wanting to help others when the need arises.

2. Attention to Detail

When you are assembling pieces, you need to make sure everything is put together correctly. Small errors in the construction of the final product can lead to serious issues down the line or may lead the item to fail to function properly.

Assemblers need to be detail oriented to make sure that everything comes together as it should, so this skill is often considered a necessity.

3. Manual Dexterity

Assembly work is typically a manual process. You may be putting pieces together by hand or using a variety of hand tools, so manual dexterity is a must. Fine motor control and strong hand-eye coordination are also helpful, as they make adapting to the physical components of the job easier.

4. Focus

Generally, the pace at a production facility is quick. Since attention to detail is so important, and you have to keep up with the speed of the line, being able to maintain focus for extended periods is critical. This will help you get your tasks done in a timely fashion, which keeps the line moving, and ensures everything is put together properly – even when you are moving quickly.

5. Self Motivation

While assemblers are often expected to meet certain performance metrics, such as completing a specific number of pieces during a shift, it’s unlikely someone is going to be standing over your shoulder to keep you on task. This means you need to be a self-motivated individual who can monitor their own performance and make adjustments as required.

Yes, failing to meet the production standards during a shift will be noticed, so it’s not that you won’t receive direction. However, keeping yourself on target may largely fall on your shoulders, so being self motivated is an important trait.

If you possess all the skills above, it’s likely a career as an assembler could be right for you. If you are interested in learning more about assembly positions in your area, the team at The Advance Group wants to hear from you. Contact us to see which leading employers are hiring today.

 

 

MONROE – Open Interviews

Raza Rauf on September 18, 2017

The Advance Group is holding Open Interviews for IMMEDIATE POSITIONS

Looking for the following:

  • Welders

  • Warehouse

  • Press Operators

  • Machine Operators

  • Material Handlers

  • Quality Control

  • General Labor

  • Assembly

  • AND MUCH MORE!!

  • Openings on all 3 shifts!!

Starting pay depends on position

Location:

35 E Front St, Monroe MI 48161

Wednesday September 20th from 8 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

  • 2 hour registration process

  • Must be 18 years of age or older

  • Must have a Diploma or GED

  • Must have a work history in the last 12 months

**PLEASE BRING 2 VALID FORMS OF ID AND A RESUME**

If you can’t attend our open house, please apply online at advanced-group.instaging.io/

When is Turning Down an Engineering Job Offer the Right Call?

HMG Success on July 28, 2017

 

 

As you search for a new engineering job, you’ll likely encounter a few opportunities that aren’t ideal. There could be an issue with the position, company, or the salary offered that actually make saying “no” a smart move. But how do you know when turning down a position is actually the right call? Here are a few signs that declining the offer is the best way to go.

The Money Doesn’t Add Up

Most job seekers don’t have an issue turning down an opportunity when the compensation offered falls on the low side. If you can’t imagine surviving on the salary, then saying “no” is generally the right way to go. However, if the pay offered is significantly higher than you were expecting, it is important to figure out why before you accept the job.

Sometimes, surprisingly high compensation is justified for the position, but you need to be clear regarding what about the job makes that so. Is there something particularly hazardous about the work? Will the work be harder than you anticipated? Are the number of hours involved more than you thought? Is there something the company isn’t telling you?

All of the above questions could be relevant when an offer is unexpectedly high, so make sure to do some research before you decide to take the job.

The Company Has a Poor Reputation

Any company that is associated with a bad track record with their staff or customers should be considered a red flag. High turnover and disgruntled employees suggest there may be something dysfunctional in the business, and upset customers may indicate an issue with long-term profitability if people stop buying the product or service. Before you accept a job, look into the company’s reputation. And, if it seems there is only bad news being reported, it may be wise to let this one pass you by.

The Job Description is Vague

While startups may not be able to offer much specificity in regards to your role, an established company should have a clear picture regarding what your job will entail. If they aren’t able to clearly outline the expectations set for the position and what the primary tasks will be, the business may pull a “bait and switch,” changing the duties once you come through the door and leaving you stuck doing work you weren’t expecting.

If they don’t provide you with sufficient details from the beginning, feel free to request more specific information and ask for it in writing. If the company doesn’t fill in the gaps using a formal method, then consider moving on to another opportunity.

In the end, saying “no” to a job offer is appropriate if the position doesn’t seem right for you, so don’t be afraid to keep your best interest in mind. If you would like to work with a skilled recruiter to find your next job, the professionals at The Advance Group can help you explore your option. Contact us to speak with a member of our team about your career goals.

 

 

When is Turning Down an Engineering Job Offer the Right Call?

Raza Rauf on July 28, 2017

 

 

As you search for a new engineering job, you’ll likely encounter a few opportunities that aren’t ideal. There could be an issue with the position, company, or the salary offered that actually make saying “no” a smart move. But how do you know when turning down a position is actually the right call? Here are a few signs that declining the offer is the best way to go.

The Money Doesn’t Add Up

Most job seekers don’t have an issue turning down an opportunity when the compensation offered falls on the low side. If you can’t imagine surviving on the salary, then saying “no” is generally the right way to go. However, if the pay offered is significantly higher than you were expecting, it is important to figure out why before you accept the job.

Sometimes, surprisingly high compensation is justified for the position, but you need to be clear regarding what about the job makes that so. Is there something particularly hazardous about the work? Will the work be harder than you anticipated? Are the number of hours involved more than you thought? Is there something the company isn’t telling you?

All of the above questions could be relevant when an offer is unexpectedly high, so make sure to do some research before you decide to take the job.

The Company Has a Poor Reputation

Any company that is associated with a bad track record with their staff or customers should be considered a red flag. High turnover and disgruntled employees suggest there may be something dysfunctional in the business, and upset customers may indicate an issue with long-term profitability if people stop buying the product or service. Before you accept a job, look into the company’s reputation. And, if it seems there is only bad news being reported, it may be wise to let this one pass you by.

The Job Description is Vague

While startups may not be able to offer much specificity in regards to your role, an established company should have a clear picture regarding what your job will entail. If they aren’t able to clearly outline the expectations set for the position and what the primary tasks will be, the business may pull a “bait and switch,” changing the duties once you come through the door and leaving you stuck doing work you weren’t expecting.

If they don’t provide you with sufficient details from the beginning, feel free to request more specific information and ask for it in writing. If the company doesn’t fill in the gaps using a formal method, then consider moving on to another opportunity.

In the end, saying “no” to a job offer is appropriate if the position doesn’t seem right for you, so don’t be afraid to keep your best interest in mind. If you would like to work with a skilled recruiter to find your next job, the professionals at The Advance Group can help you explore your option. Contact us to speak with a member of our team about your career goals.

 

 

Update Your Assembly Workplace Safety Policies for 2017

HMG Success on July 24, 2017

 

When you operate an assembly workplace, you already know that safety is important. Having strong policies and procedures in place ensures your employees aren’t experiencing undue risk and govern what actions must occur when in regards to safety. If your policies haven’t been revised within the past few years or if there have been major equipment or procedural changes since your last safety policy review, here are some reasons to update your assembly workplace safety policies in 2017.

Changes to Laws and Regulations

In some cases, laws and regulations regarding safety policies and procedures may change, leaving your current iteration incomplete, incorrect, or even illegal. Check all of your existing policies to make sure the content is relevant and accurately reflects any standards as set forth by federal, state, or local laws and regulations. Otherwise, you could have trouble enforcing your policies if even a portion is found to be out of date.

Facility Security Measures

Many businesses have chosen to add metal detectors, security cameras, and guards to help make workplaces safer. While these measures can be beneficial, there use should be outlined and governed by safety policies. By explaining why these systems are in place, you can increase the likelihood of employee buy off. And, by making their use or presence a part of the employee handbook and formal employment agreements, you are ensuring everyone is aware and willing to comply.

Medicinal and Recreational Marijuana

As more states approve the use of marijuana for medicinal and recreational purposes, safety policies may need to be updated to clearly specify what employees can and cannot do regarding its use. This could include simply preventing its use by workers while they are on the job or making its consumption completely against the rules. If the policy will be enforced through random drug screening, then that requirement needs to be clearly specified as well. Just make sure that any such policies meet the standards set forth by federal, state, and local laws before it is implemented.

Make the Information Digital

In an increasingly digital world, consider embracing the prevalence of technology by making your safety information accessible on mobile devices. For example, add URLs or QR codes to safety signage or assembly machinery. Then, employees can go to the sites or scan the codes to get additional information that they can review at work or on their own time. This gives you the widest disbursement of the information and increases the chance that all of your workers will get the details they need.

By keeping your safety policies updated, you are not only protecting your workers but your business as well. If you are interested in locating some workplace safety professionals to join your team or are looking for high-quality assembly workers to fill vacancies, The Advance Group can find top candidates in any field. Contact us to discuss your hiring needs with one of our recruitment specialists today.

 

 

Update Your Assembly Workplace Safety Policies for 2017

Raza Rauf on July 24, 2017

 

When you operate an assembly workplace, you already know that safety is important. Having strong policies and procedures in place ensures your employees aren’t experiencing undue risk and govern what actions must occur when in regards to safety. If your policies haven’t been revised within the past few years or if there have been major equipment or procedural changes since your last safety policy review, here are some reasons to update your assembly workplace safety policies in 2017.

Changes to Laws and Regulations

In some cases, laws and regulations regarding safety policies and procedures may change, leaving your current iteration incomplete, incorrect, or even illegal. Check all of your existing policies to make sure the content is relevant and accurately reflects any standards as set forth by federal, state, or local laws and regulations. Otherwise, you could have trouble enforcing your policies if even a portion is found to be out of date.

Facility Security Measures

Many businesses have chosen to add metal detectors, security cameras, and guards to help make workplaces safer. While these measures can be beneficial, there use should be outlined and governed by safety policies. By explaining why these systems are in place, you can increase the likelihood of employee buy off. And, by making their use or presence a part of the employee handbook and formal employment agreements, you are ensuring everyone is aware and willing to comply.

Medicinal and Recreational Marijuana

As more states approve the use of marijuana for medicinal and recreational purposes, safety policies may need to be updated to clearly specify what employees can and cannot do regarding its use. This could include simply preventing its use by workers while they are on the job or making its consumption completely against the rules. If the policy will be enforced through random drug screening, then that requirement needs to be clearly specified as well. Just make sure that any such policies meet the standards set forth by federal, state, and local laws before it is implemented.

Make the Information Digital

In an increasingly digital world, consider embracing the prevalence of technology by making your safety information accessible on mobile devices. For example, add URLs or QR codes to safety signage or assembly machinery. Then, employees can go to the sites or scan the codes to get additional information that they can review at work or on their own time. This gives you the widest disbursement of the information and increases the chance that all of your workers will get the details they need.

By keeping your safety policies updated, you are not only protecting your workers but your business as well. If you are interested in locating some workplace safety professionals to join your team or are looking for high-quality assembly workers to fill vacancies, The Advance Group can find top candidates in any field. Contact us to discuss your hiring needs with one of our recruitment specialists today.

 

 

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