10 Open Jobs in Michigan Today

 

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.

 

 

All Ohio Engineers Need These 5 Skills

 

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.

 

 

These “Dumb” Interview Questions Are Pretty Intelligent

 

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.

 

 

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

 

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.

 

 

Yes, You Can Negotiate Your Temp Job Salary

 

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!

 

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

 

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.

 

 

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

 

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.

 

 

This Huge Mistake Is Why You’re Unhappy at Work

 

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.

 

 

5 Top Jobs for Forklift Drivers in Michigan

 

For some, nothing beats the feeling of operating a forklift. It takes a significant amount of skill to run this piece of machinery and, once you have it down, it’s typically an enjoyable work activity.

As a forklift driver, finding a position that lets you do one of the things you appreciate most is key. If you’re seeking an opportunity in Michigan that allows you to drive a forklift, here are five top jobs that are available today.

1. Machine Operator

If you have experience in manufacturing and forklift operation, then you may be qualified for a machine operator position.

The opportunity is full-time, Monday through Friday, and openings are available on multiple shifts. Since a range of duties is involved, you’ll have the chance to mix up your daily activities.

2. Forklift Driver

For those who are passionate about operating a forklift, then a dedicated forklift driver position might be right up your alley.

The role involves pulling orders, loading and unloading trucks, and organizing the warehouse. The position is full-time, with the opportunity to become a permanent member of the team. Plus, it has a Monday through Friday dayshift schedule, making it an exceptional opportunity.

3. Shipping/Receiving

Experienced shipping and receiving professionals who have strong forklift skills may enjoy this temp-to-hire opportunity. The position is long-term, and offers opportunities for growth and advancement, making it a strong option for career-minded forklift drivers interested in moving up in an established company.

4. Material Handler

If you enjoy jobs that help you stay in shape while giving you a chance to drive a forklift, then you may be well-suited for a material handler position.

These roles can involve some heavy lifting as well as forklift operation in a fast-paced environment. The opportunity is long-term, with the option to be hired on permanently on the swing shift.

5. Warehouse

Without forklift drivers, most warehouses would struggle to maintain daily operations. If you have previous warehousing or logistics experience and can operate a forklift, this day-shift opportunity might be right for you.

While the schedule is predominately Monday through Friday, occasional weekends or overtime may be required when its busy, potentially giving you a chance to earn a bigger paycheck by helping out the team.

Michigan is full of opportunities for forklift drivers, so, if that is where your passion lies, you can almost certainly find a position that lets you do what you enjoy most.

If you are interested in finding a forklift position, the skilled team at The Advance Group can connect you with employers who are looking for an experienced professional just like you. Contact us to speak with one of our knowledgeable recruiters to learn more about our current openings and see how our services can benefit you.

 

 

Why Grammar Matters in Your Job Search

 

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.

 

 

First Impressions Matter. Use This to Make a Better One!

 

First impressions are powerful. They build a foundation upon which every future interaction is based, impacting how you are perceived by that person from that moment going forward.

Making a strong first impression is essential, particularly when you are hoping to land a new job. But figuring out how to make a better one isn’t always easy. That is, until now.

If you are ready to improve how people perceive you from the beginning, here is an exercise that can help you make a better first impression.

Assess Your Previous Interactions

Whenever you want to make changes to your behavior, you need to begin by assessing what you usually do in those specific situations. To help you do this, ask yourself a few questions regarding how you typically handle an introduction.

For example, do you come off as confident or arrogant? Are you respectful of people’s personal space or do you tend to invade it? Do you take time to be an active listener or just wait for your chance to speak?

It’s critical you assess your actions honestly as this gives you a chance to identify any potential shortcomings. Then, you can begin to improve any areas where you are weak, helping you make a better first impression.

Take Stock of Your Strengths

As you consider your previous interactions, note any points where you typically shine. Maybe you’re an eloquent speaker, radiate confidence, or are a capable listener.

Whatever your strengths, make sure you recognize them. Not only is this a potential confidence booster, but it also lets you know which areas you don’t need to work on to make a positive first impression.

Address Your Weaknesses

Most people have a point or two where they struggle when making a first impression. Acknowledging where your weaknesses lie gives you a starting point for improvements. After you identify your shortcoming, you have two choices: Confront them or circumvent them.

If you want to improve your skill set, face your challenges head-on. Seek out opportunities that give you a chance to practice in those areas. For example, if group settings make you uncomfortable, consider joining a public speaking club to help you gain confidence.

Alternatively, if you have the ability to navigate around your weaknesses, that’s also an option. For example, if you’re great one-on-one, but not as part of a group; look for opportunities that allow you to meet with a person as an individual instead of the collaborative setting. This approach doesn’t necessarily help you correct a shortcoming, but it can be helpful in a pinch.

In the end, self-awareness is essential if you want to make better first impressions. See every introduction as an opportunity to practice your skills, giving you a chance to improve. With time, you’ll be able to correct or circumvent your weaknesses, ensuring you make the best first impression possible.

If you want to learn more about making better first impressions, or are looking for new jobs in Michigan and Ohio, the professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us today to speak with one of our team members and see how our expertise can benefit you.

 

 

Make Real Money With Your Skilled Trades Job!

 

When people imagine what a high-paying job looks like, they often assume it involves spending hours behind a desk in a traditional office building. But, that isn’t an accurate reflection of reality.

In fact, there are numerous skilled trades jobs that can provide you with a reliable and robust paycheck, allowing you to take a different path and still earn a strong salary.

If you’re interested in making real money with your skilled trades job, here’s what you need to know.

Pursue the Right Trade

When it comes to salaries, not all trades are created equal. Generally, those that require a substantial amount of training or experience and are typically viewed as in-demand will result in higher paychecks than others.

For example, electricians and plumbers have median salaries of over $50,000 a year, and the top 10 percent can even get close to the six-figure mark. HVAC mechanics and installers have a median annual pay rate of just over $47,000, with the top 10 percent usually bringing in slightly more than $75,000.

However, not all trades have the same potential, so it’s important to research your options before committing to a path.

Get the Right Education

While many trades can be learned on the job, that likely isn’t the fastest path to a higher salary. Typically, you’ll have more opportunities for success with the proper education and training.

Usually, you have a few choices when it comes to gaining more knowledge. First, you can see if apprenticeship programs are available in your area, as these give you a chance to learn from individuals currently working in the field and obtain hands-on experience.

Alternatively, you can examine community college and trade or technical school programs. If you go this route, make sure to research the institution to determine if it is reputable and provides you with the skills you need to begin working in the field after you graduate. Not all schools are created equal, so you want to make sure you select an option that can genuinely help you succeed.

Work Your Way to the Top

Like nearly every profession, you aren’t going to start at the top, regarding pay. Instead, you need to build your level of experience, improve your skills, gain new areas of competency, and be a strong performer on the job.

Diligence and a willingness to go the extra can do wonders for your skilled trades career, as well as being open to acquiring additional skills and learning new techniques that can help you be successful on the job. Whatever you do, don’t discount the value of hard work and dedication as you begin your climb to the top, as it is usually a key to long-term success.

If you are looking for a skilled trades job, the professional recruiters at The Advance Group can help you locate new and exciting opportunities. Contact us to speak with one of our knowledgeable and experienced staff members today and see how our services can connect you with leading employers throughout the area.