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3 Tips for Un-Complicating Your Job Search

HMG Success on October 7, 2026

UnComplicate-Job-Search

 

Is your job search starting to get you very stressed out? Are you overwhelmed by all the different things that you need to keep track of and do in order to get a job? You are not alone. Many people feel frustrated over the job search process – particularly if it takes months to land even one interview.

However, there are some things you can do to streamline and simplify things so that you are staying on track and making the best use of your time. Here are some ways to un-complicate your job search.

1. Decide what type of job you want.

Believe it or not this can be a very difficult thing for some people. This is especially true if you had put certain types of jobs in the past and you think that you can only do those types of jobs. But what you need to understand is that you have a broad gamut of skills that would be valuable to a potential employer. Take the time to participate in a few career personality tests which can be taken online and identify the top-three career choices for your particular talents.

2. Clean up your image.

Some people think you should start with your resume but we think that you should start with your public profiles. 95 percent of all recruiters are looking through candidate profiles on their social networks before they even pick up the phone to call them for an interview. Make sure that you clean up your profiles, remove any questionable content, and put your best foot forward with a professional headshot photo and information about your career.

3. Work with a career coach.

You don’t have to go it alone with a job search! There are skilled professionals out there ready and willing to help you along the way. Contact your local staffing agency and find out if you can get support there for your job search. Consider hiring a certified career coach in your area of expertise to guide you along the way. Get support by joining a job network where you can learn of new job opportunities and talk to others about your journey.

The above three steps will set you on the right path in very little time at all. Be sure to check out the new job openings available at Advance Staffing Solutions, and reach out to us any time you need help with your job search — from resumes to interviews, we’re here to help you!

 

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Don’t Want to Lose Your Job? Then Don’t Make These Social Media Mistakes

HMG Success on October 7, 2026

dont-want-to-lose-your-job

 

Nearly everyone and their grandmother has a social media account today. It’s been estimated that people spend up to four hours per day checking in on their social networks. Job seekers are especially mindful of their social networks because they are continuously connecting with recruiters and hiring companies. However, they may accidentally do some things that will hurt their chances of getting hired.

Here are some mistakes that you’ll want to watch out for when using social media.

  • Potentially offensive posts.
    Statuses or updates on your social media profile about a co-worker, vulgar lyrics or quotes, or your political views could potentially offend someone. Take these types of posts off of your social media profiles while you search for work.
  • Unprofessional photos.
    If you’re using your personal social media profile , you’ll want to remove any unprofessional photos of yourself and your friends.
  • The appearance of stalking.
    It can be tempting to start checking out the social media profiles of human resource representatives of the companies you want to work for, however, this can make people uncomfortable if they consistently see you viewing their profile or “liking” their status, without a professional connection.
  • Any negative posts about your employer.
    Just as you shouldn’t badmouth an employer during an interview, you certainly don’t want to put those negative thoughts on your social media profiles. Writing something nasty about a co-worker or your boss can feel like a temporary relief of a grievance, it will not look well to a recruiter.
  • Any content that dates you.
    While they don’t mean to, recruiters can sometimes have unconscious biases when it comes to job seekers. They may review a social profile and guess a person’s age from the content that is presented, and if you seem out-of-date because of your content, you will lessen your likelihood of getting hired.
  • A profile that is new or has few connections.
    If you are brand new to social networking, that’s one thing, but if you create a profile specifically to be found online, you can throw off a recruiter who is wise to this tactic.
  • An account that does not allow messaging.
    Want recruiters to contact you? Your profile settings need to be enabled so that the recruiter can send you a message about a job lead or contact you for further inquiries.

Take the time to review your social network profiles and clean them up for a successful job search. And if you need job search advice or assistance, contact the experts at Advance Staffing Solutions!

 

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3 Cool Tech Tools to Improve Your Job Search

HMG Success on October 7, 2026

Sept_2016_TechTools

 

Searching for a new job can be both exciting and overwhelming.  Whether it is working your way through applicant tracking systems, keeping multiple online profiles up-to-date, and networking through social media, technology has never been as prevalent in the process as it is today.  If you are looking for ways to stay ahead of the competition in your job search, having technology working for you instead of simply being with you, here are three innovative tech tools that can give you an edge.

Jobscan Your Way to a Better Resume

If it seems like you are never getting called in for an interview, it is possible your resume is to blame.  Many companies use automated screening processes designed to eliminate certain resumes based on the presence or lack of certain key information.  If your resume doesn’t fit the parameters, it may not even be seen by a person before being removed from contention.

In cases like these, Jobscan is the perfect tool to whip your resume into shape.  Jobscan takes your resume and compares it directly to the job posting to which you are applying, and provides guidance based what is, or is not, present in your resume.  This allows you to tweak your information to put you in the best position possible to have your resume seen by an actual person.

Purple Squirrel is Your Inside Connection

Purple Squirrel provides you with direct access to people who are currently working for your target company.  The current employees, referred to as Ambassadors, provide knowledge to those looking to become an employee themselves.  Interested parties can review the Ambassadors information, schedule a consultation, and receive feedback regarding potential next steps, all from one place.

While contact with an Ambassador does not guarantee employment, it can be used to learn about unadvertised positions, as well as obtain referrals from those who are currently connected with the company.

At this time, Purple Squirrel is still in beta, but you can apply for an invite from the site.  Additionally, Ambassadors can charge fees for their services, but all employment is verified prior to their account activation, so if you pay for a chance to talk to someone at your dream company, you can rest assured that they truly do work there.

The Premium Side of LinkedIn

LinkedIn offers various levels of premium membership, each with additional offerings that may be useful to a job hunter.  For example, the lowest tier plan, receive additional InMail message benefits and can retrieve more details about the people who view your profile.  The next tier provides advanced search filters and adds unlimited search options in your extended network.

There are more advanced tiers as well, allowing you to take as much control over your LinkedIn profile’s destiny as you wish, but even the lower tiers provide insight that can be used to craft a more effective profile.

Help From the Experts

Staffing firm professionals also have the ability to market you to companies and locate unadvertised listings.  If you would like help with your job search, contact Advance Staffing Solutions today!  Let our 25 years of staffing experience work for you.

 

 

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Too Busy for a Job Search?

HMG Success on October 7, 2026

7-Advance_Feb

 

When you think of a job hunt, do you imagine sitting in front of a computer screen for hours on end? Are you slogging through job listings or analyzing every word on your resume? And are you trying to do all of this while working a full-time job, going to school, or caring for a family?

While it’s true that a job search does take some of your time, it is a common misconception that it has to be cumbersome. Often, when we picture a job search, we see the task as a whole instead of a sum of various parts. And separating out the pieces can be the key to job search success no matter how busy your average day tends to be.

Here are some common mini-tasks involved in the large job hunting process, and information about how to fit them into your day.

Manage Your Resume

The first step of every job hunt is to get your resume in order. That way, if you find a great opportunity, you aren’t stuck scrambling to manage the paperwork. Now, you don’t have to see resume revisions as a single task. Instead, dedicate just 10 minutes a day to the project, and use each 10-minute block to handle a single resume section.

For example, your first 10 minutes could involve updating the information on your current position. The next 10 minutes? Update your skills information. Just proceed in 10-minute intervals, one section at a time, until you have a solid base resume.

Create Alerts and Searches

Many job boards give you the option to receive emails regarding new positions that may be of interest. Consider visiting some of the major players and creating alerts based on your target positions. That way, if you are somewhat crunched for time, you can review positions that are more likely to suit your needs. Additionally, save search criteria on some of these sites as well to help streamline your efforts when the time is right.

Now, you don’t actually have to begin your searching yet. This step is about making your future efforts more efficient, so don’t feel like you need to review everything that comes up now. Instead, use 10-minute intervals just as you did with your resume review and get these setup for future use.

After all of the setups are complete, you can use your available time to review positions that fit the parameters you set without having to wade through the rest.

Work with Skilled Employment Professionals

Sometimes, the best way to get a job search going when you are strapped for time is to work with professional recruiters. Staffing firms can review your information and get to know your preferences in a single meeting. Then, they can forward you opportunities that meet your needs. They’ll do all of the searching and sorting for you, and you get to reap all of the benefits of their expertise.

If you are too busy to commit to your job search, the professionals at The Advance Group are here to help. Contact us today and let our experience work for you!

 

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Don’t Really Want the Job? Here’s What Could Happen If You Take It Anyway

HMG Success on October 7, 2026

 

At some point, you’ll likely be faced with a tough decision: do you take a job you don’t really want or do you try to hold out for something better? Depending on your exact circumstances, you may feel that you don’t have much of a choice but to say yes, and that can be a scary thought. However, accepting the offer isn’t necessarily going to be all bad, though there will likely be some challenges on the horizon. To help you see the bigger picture, here’s what could happen if you take a job you don’t really want.

It Can Be Discouraging

Normally, you aren’t going to be thrilled about taking a job that won’t help you further your career, or that doesn’t offer interesting opportunities to learn and grow. If you were stuck having to accept such a job, it could be very discouraging. Feeling stagnant can be incredibly frustrating in itself, and if you don’t feel a position can help you reach bigger and better things in the future, it can even leave you feeling a bit trapped. However, there are some other important points to consider.

This Job Isn’t Forever

If you have to take a job you don’t really want, it’s important to understand that this doesn’t have to be the end of the road. People change jobs fairly regularly, with one study showing an average of four positions before age 32, so this may simply be a speed bump in an otherwise smooth career.

Additionally, by sticking with it, at least for the short-term, you could be exposed to opportunities that weren’t necessarily apparent when you accepted the job. Just as it can be hard to show everything you have to give to a company in a resume and interview, not everything an employer can provide is easy to assess during that portion of the process. Try to look beyond the first impression and view the position with fresh eyes when you begin. It’s possible something better is actually in store than you originally pictured.

Look Below the Surface for Something Worthwhile

Even if the job turns out to be what you imagined, this company has something to offer that is worth exploring. Dig into training options, network with other professionals, and look for opportunities to learn new skills or hone current ones. You can also see if positions in other departments might be more appealing, and see what it would take to transition into one.

Often, if you put effort into finding some positive, you’re likely to discover something worthwhile. This can make a job you didn’t really want turn into something that can help your career.

Be Prepared to Keep Looking

Worst case, keep your resume ready. While seeking a new position quickly after accepting a new job isn’t always ideal, there isn’t anything that says you can’t do it once during your career. Just make sure any future interviewers understand you are looking to leave so quickly because the opportunity turned out to be not the right fit, and you are hoping to move forward so you and your current employer can both find better matches.

If you are looking for a new job, the recruiters at The Advance Group can help you find an ideal match. Contact us today and see how our services can assist you in your search for a job offer that really makes you want to say “yes.”

 

 

You (Yes, YOU!) Can Make Yourself the Best Candidate in Your Field

HMG Success on October 7, 2026

Many professionals strive to be one of the best at their current workplace. It allows them to excel in their position, achieve recognition, and potentially advance. Plus, being viewed as a top performer can give you job security, as most companies aim to keep their best and brightest on staff.

However, by taking the right steps, it’s possible to achieve more. You can make yourself one of the best (if not the best) candidates in your field by using the right approach. If you’d like to know how you can position yourself as such, here’s a look at what you need to do.

Build Your Brand

Your professional brand is something that needs to be crafted and honed, not created incidentally. It spotlights the best of what you have to offer, along with your unique voice and perspective.

For most professionals, crafting a brand means developing an online presence that aligns with your career and area of expertise. This can include a combination of approaches, such as creating an active LinkedIn profile that includes details about your skills and experience as well as your accomplishments, writing blog posts that are highly relevant to your field, and engage appropriately with other experts on social media or in suitable forums.

A dedicated website can also be part of the equation. It can serve as a place to showcase your experience, discuss your thoughts on relevant trends, and otherwise showcase what you have to offer.

Your goal should be to establish your expertise, not solicit job offers. By keeping that as the focus, your brand concentrates on your capabilities, not your job search.

Keep Current on Trends

Those who are perceived as experts or thought leaders are well-informed about trends that impact their field. They keep current when it comes to relevant emerging technologies, shifts in their corresponding marketplace, and changes in public sentiment.

If you want to make yourself the best candidate, it’s wise to remain up-to-date at all times. That way, you can discuss the future of your industry, both in posts that support your brand and during interviews. Many hiring managers appreciate job seekers who can explain how what is on the horizon can help their company excel, mainly when it is relevant to the role the job seeker is trying to land.

In some cases, going further is also a smart move. For example, acquiring new skills on your own time that relate to emerging technologies can help you stand out from other candidates and increase your perceived value.

Engage With Your Network

If you only connect with members of your network when you need a new job, you might not be establishing yourself as a keen professional. Ultimately, you are missing out on opportunities to enhance your brand, including general awareness of what you have to offer.

By engaging with your network regularly, you are becoming an integral part of more communities. Your name will remain in the minds of those you connect with, and that may give you access to more opportunities, including those that aren’t publicly advertised, because your network feels confident about what you have to offer and your level of involvement in the field at-large.

In the end, all of the tips above can support your goal of making yourself the best candidate in the eyes of those hiring in your field. If you’d like to learn more, the staff at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with a member of our skilled team today and see how our career management and professional branding expertise can benefit your Michigan and Ohio job search.

 

 

Here’s How COVID-19 Changed Job Search Etiquette

HMG Success on October 7, 2026

COVID-19 had a significant impact on job searches. Core portions of the recruitment process had to be altered to account for shelter-in-place orders, social distancing, and general safety. As a result, specific approaches that were once considered best practices don’t work in today’s landscape. Changes had to be made.

As a result, job search etiquette has also shifted. Candidates have to adjust their expectations and adapt to the new paradigm. Otherwise, they may have a more challenging time landing a new role.

By understanding how the landscape has been altered by COVID-19, candidates can prepare for becoming the new normal. With that in mind, here’s a look at the job search etiquette shifts that the pandemic is making necessary.

Virtual Interview Job Search Etiquette

One of the easiest ways to move forward with recruitment processes in a post-COVID-19 world is to take much of the experience online. Virtual interviews allow hiring managers to get to know candidates without meeting in person, making them a reasonable stand-in for the traditional approach.

However, the video interview requires some adjustments. Candidates have to prepare their spaces appropriately, invest in reliable tech, and attempt to control their environment.

Ideally, candidates need to see how they and their office space look on camera before the interview. Camera angles, wall colors, lighting choices, and décor items in the frame all impact the experience, so job seekers need to spend time reviewing what’s in view of the camera and take reasonable action to ensure everything comes through clearly and is appropriate.

Additionally, candidates can’t expect hiring managers to be sympathetic if they have subpar technology. While you don’t have to have a cutting-edge camera, headset, or microphone, they need to be of decent quality and reliable overall. If you can’t be seen or heard clearly, it’s time for new tech.

Finally, while hiring managers understand that you’re likely interviewing from home, candidates need to do their best to limit interruptions or extraneous noise. Pick a quiet room with a door you can close and potentially lock. Let family members know you are unavailable during the interview. That way, you can give the hiring manager your full attention.

Online Skills Testing Etiquette Tips

Many companies have incorporated skills testing or trial projects into their recruitment processes as a means of finding top talent. If you are asked to complete a task, there are a few steps you should take.

First, ask the hiring manager for a due date for the test or sample. Not only does this let you know how long you have to finish, but it may also help you gauge the recruitment process timeline.

Second, plan to handle the test or project as quickly as possible. If you weren’t given a specific due date, then you want to assume that sooner is better than later. This is especially true of the hiring manager is considering several applicants, as they may choose a frontrunner as soon as they see an impressive submission.

However, even if you are given a due date that’s several days away, that doesn’t mean you don’t want to be ahead of the curve. Not only are you ensuring the hiring manager gets what they need quickly, a move that can be interpreted as a sign of respect and diligence, but it also highlights your excitement about the opportunity.

Ultimately, job search etiquette has been impacted by COVID-19. With the tips above, you can make sure you’re ready to shine in this new paradigm. If you’d like to learn more or are looking for a new job, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us today.

 

 

5 Things to Keep in Mind When Starting Your Job Search

Tamila McDonald on September 7, 2023

Preparing for a job search is exciting, but it’s also a bit daunting. Finding a new position is often time-consuming and complex. Fortunately, you can make the journey simpler by using the right approach.

Here are five things to keep in mind when starting your job search.

1. Define Your Goals and Priorities

Before you start looking for open positions, take the time to define your goals and priorities. Outline what you want to find in a new job. For example, consider what type of duties you’d like to have or the skills you want to leverage. Determine the kind of environment and culture that suits you best, as well as any benefits or perks you consider must-haves. Additionally, figure out what sort of compensation you’re seeking, giving you a specific range to target.

By taking this step, you’ll have an easier time identifying right-fit opportunities as you search for openings. That way, you can direct your energy in the best possible direction.

2. Craft a Strong Resume and Cover Letter

Another critical thing to do before starting your job search is to update your resume to ensure it’s as strong as possible. In most cases, you’re best served by creating a master resume that includes any potentially relevant achievement, skill, or other point you may want to share. Then, when you need to target your resume to the job, you can simply remove accomplishments that aren’t as relevant and do other minor tweaks, streamlining the process.

Similarly, preparing an initial cover letter can be helpful. While you’ll want to target the content to the specific role, having one ready gives you a functional framework to follow.

3. Leverage Your Network

Your network is an excellent resource during a job search. Along with potentially providing you with information about openings that align with your goals and skills, your network may lead to direct referrals.

Plus, leveraging your network can give you a source of support and guidance. Additionally, by looping in the members, you may be able to ensure that those who would make great references are comfortable with taking on that role in advance.

4. Utilize Online Job Search Platforms

Online job search platforms are another excellent tool when you’re looking for new positions. Use several to widen your reach, and take advantage of various search options and filters to narrow down the results. It’s also wise to set up job alerts based on different search criteria. Then, if a new listing appears that could be a match, you’ll get a notification, automating a portion of your search efforts.

5. Stay Organized

During a job search, organization is critical. Create a mechanism for tracking the job listing you’re interested in, applications you’ve submitted, and any follow-up attempts. That helps you track crucial details, which will prove valuable as your job search unfolds.

Contact the Advance Group Today

If you’d like to learn more about how to have a successful job search or want to partner with a recruiter to take your job search to the next level, The Advance Group wants to hear from you. Contact us today.

Here’s How COVID-19 Changed Job Search Etiquette

Raza Rauf on October 12, 2020

COVID-19 had a significant impact on job searches. Core portions of the recruitment process had to be altered to account for shelter-in-place orders, social distancing, and general safety. As a result, specific approaches that were once considered best practices don’t work in today’s landscape. Changes had to be made.

As a result, job search etiquette has also shifted. Candidates have to adjust their expectations and adapt to the new paradigm. Otherwise, they may have a more challenging time landing a new role.

By understanding how the landscape has been altered by COVID-19, candidates can prepare for becoming the new normal. With that in mind, here’s a look at the job search etiquette shifts that the pandemic is making necessary.

Virtual Interview Job Search Etiquette

One of the easiest ways to move forward with recruitment processes in a post-COVID-19 world is to take much of the experience online. Virtual interviews allow hiring managers to get to know candidates without meeting in person, making them a reasonable stand-in for the traditional approach.

However, the video interview requires some adjustments. Candidates have to prepare their spaces appropriately, invest in reliable tech, and attempt to control their environment.

Ideally, candidates need to see how they and their office space look on camera before the interview. Camera angles, wall colors, lighting choices, and décor items in the frame all impact the experience, so job seekers need to spend time reviewing what’s in view of the camera and take reasonable action to ensure everything comes through clearly and is appropriate.

Additionally, candidates can’t expect hiring managers to be sympathetic if they have subpar technology. While you don’t have to have a cutting-edge camera, headset, or microphone, they need to be of decent quality and reliable overall. If you can’t be seen or heard clearly, it’s time for new tech.

Finally, while hiring managers understand that you’re likely interviewing from home, candidates need to do their best to limit interruptions or extraneous noise. Pick a quiet room with a door you can close and potentially lock. Let family members know you are unavailable during the interview. That way, you can give the hiring manager your full attention.

Online Skills Testing Etiquette Tips

Many companies have incorporated skills testing or trial projects into their recruitment processes as a means of finding top talent. If you are asked to complete a task, there are a few steps you should take.

First, ask the hiring manager for a due date for the test or sample. Not only does this let you know how long you have to finish, but it may also help you gauge the recruitment process timeline.

Second, plan to handle the test or project as quickly as possible. If you weren’t given a specific due date, then you want to assume that sooner is better than later. This is especially true of the hiring manager is considering several applicants, as they may choose a frontrunner as soon as they see an impressive submission.

However, even if you are given a due date that’s several days away, that doesn’t mean you don’t want to be ahead of the curve. Not only are you ensuring the hiring manager gets what they need quickly, a move that can be interpreted as a sign of respect and diligence, but it also highlights your excitement about the opportunity.

Ultimately, job search etiquette has been impacted by COVID-19. With the tips above, you can make sure you’re ready to shine in this new paradigm. If you’d like to learn more or are looking for a new job, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us today.

 

 

You (Yes, YOU!) Can Make Yourself the Best Candidate in Your Field

Raza Rauf on February 28, 2020

Many professionals strive to be one of the best at their current workplace. It allows them to excel in their position, achieve recognition, and potentially advance. Plus, being viewed as a top performer can give you job security, as most companies aim to keep their best and brightest on staff.

However, by taking the right steps, it’s possible to achieve more. You can make yourself one of the best (if not the best) candidates in your field by using the right approach. If you’d like to know how you can position yourself as such, here’s a look at what you need to do.

Build Your Brand

Your professional brand is something that needs to be crafted and honed, not created incidentally. It spotlights the best of what you have to offer, along with your unique voice and perspective.

For most professionals, crafting a brand means developing an online presence that aligns with your career and area of expertise. This can include a combination of approaches, such as creating an active LinkedIn profile that includes details about your skills and experience as well as your accomplishments, writing blog posts that are highly relevant to your field, and engage appropriately with other experts on social media or in suitable forums.

A dedicated website can also be part of the equation. It can serve as a place to showcase your experience, discuss your thoughts on relevant trends, and otherwise showcase what you have to offer.

Your goal should be to establish your expertise, not solicit job offers. By keeping that as the focus, your brand concentrates on your capabilities, not your job search.

Keep Current on Trends

Those who are perceived as experts or thought leaders are well-informed about trends that impact their field. They keep current when it comes to relevant emerging technologies, shifts in their corresponding marketplace, and changes in public sentiment.

If you want to make yourself the best candidate, it’s wise to remain up-to-date at all times. That way, you can discuss the future of your industry, both in posts that support your brand and during interviews. Many hiring managers appreciate job seekers who can explain how what is on the horizon can help their company excel, mainly when it is relevant to the role the job seeker is trying to land.

In some cases, going further is also a smart move. For example, acquiring new skills on your own time that relate to emerging technologies can help you stand out from other candidates and increase your perceived value.

Engage With Your Network

If you only connect with members of your network when you need a new job, you might not be establishing yourself as a keen professional. Ultimately, you are missing out on opportunities to enhance your brand, including general awareness of what you have to offer.

By engaging with your network regularly, you are becoming an integral part of more communities. Your name will remain in the minds of those you connect with, and that may give you access to more opportunities, including those that aren’t publicly advertised, because your network feels confident about what you have to offer and your level of involvement in the field at-large.

In the end, all of the tips above can support your goal of making yourself the best candidate in the eyes of those hiring in your field. If you’d like to learn more, the staff at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with a member of our skilled team today and see how our career management and professional branding expertise can benefit your Michigan and Ohio job search.

 

 

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