Put an End to Employee Attrition This Year

Raza Rauf on January 14, 2019

With the labor market remaining tight, most businesses are finding themselves in a job seeker’s market. Skilled professionals can quickly find new opportunities, some employers that aren’t measuring up will often end up shorthanded.

During periods such as this, retention needs to be a priority at every company. Otherwise, employee attrition can leave your struggling to meet deadlines, maintain productivity, and even keep morale up.

While a certain level of turnover is unavoidable, there are things you can do to keep it at a minimum. If you want to put an end to employee attrition this year, here are some tips to get you started.

Offer Competitive Wages

While money isn’t everything to employees, it is always something. If your pay rates aren’t in line with industry standards or what your competitors are offering, retaining your best and brightest is going to be difficult.

Make sure to review your salaries regularly and compare them to known norms. Researching your competitors is often a necessity, though you can also find out information on websites that are dedicated to tracking worker pay, such as Salary.com or Glassdoor.

Provide Additional Benefits

Salary is only one part of a worker’s compensation package. Medical insurance, retirement options, and vacation time are just some of the additional benefits that also make up total compensation.

As you review your salaries, it’s also wise to research benefits packages. If you aren’t meeting expectations in these areas, you may need to bolster your offerings or add new benefits, ensuring you remain competitive.

Improve Your Culture

A company’s culture has a big impact on whether skilled professionals choose to stay. Businesses that offer opportunities for growth, a warm and welcoming environment, and a positive experience are more attractive to top talent.

Employees prefer to work at companies that have missions they can get behind, as well. This creates a level of intrinsic job satisfaction, making their contributions feel more meaningful. Similarly, if their values align with the organization’s, they will usually feel more integrated into the company, and potentially more loyal as well.

To keep workers engaged, it is also wise to provide them with opportunities to face challenges, such as by taking part in exciting projects or having the chance to use emerging technology. If the work is too simple, it doesn’t require as much thought or dedication. Additionally, if a process is antiquated, it usually isn’t inspiring. Over time, it can even become boring, and that is one of the primary enemies of engagement.

While it may not be possible to eliminate turnover entirely, by following the tips above, you can improve your retention rates, potentially dramatically. If you would like to know more about what you can do to put an end to employee attrition this year, the skilled professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to discuss your goals with one of our specialists today and see how our employee retention expertise can benefit you.

How to Find a Job Without a Resume

Raza Rauf on January 11, 2019

Building or updating a resume can be a cumbersome task. If you’ve never had a resume before or haven’t applied to a job opening in several years, the idea can also be very intimidating.

While most vacancy announcements do require a resume as part of the application, not all of them do. There are ways to land a job without having a resume, though you will have to adjust your search to find the right opportunities. If you need to find a job and don’t have a resume, here’s how to get started.

Focus on Companies With Online Applications

Some employers allow applicants to complete a standardized application in lieu of submitting a resume. The application has blanks you fill in, ensuring the company gets the information they need. Typically, they will give you space to discuss your employment history, educational background, volunteer opportunities, core skills, and more.

While many online applications give you the option of adding a resume as a supplemental document, it isn’t always a requirement. Since the application covers all of the most important areas, the company can usually make a determination regarding whether to invite you in for an interview based on that alone.

It’s important to note that some companies even have paper applications available, such as retailers and fast food locations. However, this is becoming increasingly less common, and many employers will point you to an online application even if you ask for one in-person.

Use Social Media for Your Job Search

Both LinkedIn and Facebook can be powerful additions to a job search. Often, you can apply to openings directly through the platform, allowing your profile to act in place of a traditional resume.

In some cases, you can also reach out to hiring managers online and steer them to your profile. This can work if a position isn’t widely advertised, as there may not be a standard application process in place, creating a level of flexibility.

This approach is usually more effective if you have a large professional network. In those cases, you can let your contacts know you are seeking a new position, and your profile can stand in for a resume if they want to connect you with a hiring manager.

Connect With a Leading Staffing Firm

Many recruitment agencies don’t require job seekers to show up with a resume in hand. Often, you can complete a standardized application instead, allowing you to get started without a resume.

Plus, if a resume is required for an opening, leading staffing firms will help you create one. This gives you access to their experience and know-how, ensuring your resume exceed the expectations of the hiring manager looking to hire for a role.

If you are looking for a new job and don’t have a resume, the skilled recruiters at The Advance Group can help you find your ideal opportunity. Click here to find our newest open jobs, or contact us to discuss your perfect position today and see how our hiring and placement services can benefit you.

Help Employees Create Career Plans for 2019 and Beyond!

Raza Rauf on January 7, 2019

With the business world in a constant state of evolution, often because of advances in technology, and the labor pool shrinking, companies need to go the extra mile if they want to keep their employees engaged. Your workers are an asset and, by helping them identify clear pathways for advancement, you can show your appreciation, boost morale, and even become an employer of choice.

Helping your employees craft career plans is an excellent way to differentiate yourself from other employers. It shows you are invested in their growth, development, and overall career success, creating a culture that feels supportive and positive.

If you want to know how you can assist your employees, here are some tips for creating career plans with them.

Identify the Pathways

Certain positions naturally connect to one another. Usually, they represent single steps up the career ladder, a direct line that keeps moving up. However, other options typically exist, involving slight lateral shifts along with forward progression.

Before you assist your staff with career plans, identify any existing pathways in the organization. Figure out which roles flow logically into others, along with those that are closely aligned enough where making a transition would be possible if the employee gathered the right additional skills.

If your current job descriptions are complete and thorough, completing the analysis is fairly straightforward. However, if you find you don’t have great starting information, you may need to update the descriptions before you proceed.

Talk With Your Employees

Once you have the pathways identified, it’s time for some initial conversations. You need to find out what goals and aspirations your workers have today, giving you an idea of which pathways may be of interest.

This is an important step because some employees may not want to head in the direction that represents the straightest line forward. Many professionals incidentally fall into a career, so where they are today may not be the best baseline for judging where they want to go.

Find Opportunities for Growth

After you’ve spoken with your employees, you can begin to help them forge a plan that will get them where they want to go. This may include furthering their education, taking part in training activities, assigning them a mentor, allowing them to job shadow, or anything else that enables them to acquire the skills, experience, and perspective necessary to take the right step.

As you create the plans, remember you can’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Each worker is unique, so their goals and preferences will vary. Instead, customize each one, and make sure their input is guiding light throughout the process. Otherwise, you risk coming up with a path that isn’t very enticing, and won’t be as effective.

If you would like to learn more about how you can help employees create career plans, the skilled professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us with your questions today and see how our career planning expertise can benefit you.

Post-Holiday Warehouse Jobs Available Now!

Raza Rauf on January 4, 2019

After the holiday, seasonal warehouse positions largely disappear. Luckily, there are post-holiday warehouse jobs available now, many of which can be long-term. If you are looking for a new role, here are a few warehouse jobs worth checking out.

Warehouse – Monroe, MI

If you are looking for an entry-level position with tons of growth potential, one Monroe company might be right for you. They are a third-tier automotive supplier and are looking to supplement their current staff for the long-term.

This temp-to-hire position involves a variety of tasks, including pulling materials, packaging, press operating, and quality inspection. Cross-training opportunities come with the role, giving you the ability to learn new skills and further your career.

Along with a strong starting salary, there are openings on all three shifts (7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., 3:30 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., 11:30 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.). This means there is a schedule that can suit nearly anyone’s needs.

Warehouse – Swanton, OH

Job seekers in the Swanton area should check out a new warehouse opportunity with a leading equine fence manufacturer. The selected candidates will be tasked with picking and packing orders, so accuracy and attention to detail are must-haves. Additionally, prior forklift experience is essential, as well as the ability to lift up to 50 pounds throughout the day.

The position is on a day shift, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday with the occasional Saturday. The starting pay is very competitive, making it a great opportunity.

Material Handler – Monroe, MI

Another Monroe company is looking for a material handler with forklift experience. The position involves loading and unloading equipment and materials, as well as picking and packing parts.

As a temp-to-hire opportunity, the potential to remain with the company long-term is high. Plus, the pay is competitive and a day shift schedule (7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) is available.

Once hired on full-time, employees gain access to a great benefits package. Plus, there is room for advancement, ensuring you get a chance to keep your career moving forward.

Order Picker – Monroe, MI

Job seekers with forklift experience may be interested in an order picker position with a fast-paced automotive packaging and distribution company. This temp-to-hire position comes with strong starting pay with the opportunity to receive a raise once you join the permanent staff. Additionally, you’ll get a chance to cross-train into other areas, giving you an opportunity to enhance your skills and learn new ones.

The position is on the second shift, 4:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., Monday through Friday, though the candidate needs to be open to overtime and weekend work as required.

If you are interested in the positions listed above or are seeking other warehouse jobs, the skilled team at The Advance Group want to hear from you. Click here to check out our open jobs, or contact us learn more about our current openings and see how our services can benefit you.

Disagree With Your Year-End Evaluation? Here’s How to Handle It

Raza Rauf on December 28, 2018

As the year draws to a close, employees around the country are sitting down for one of their hardest meetings of the year: their year-end evaluation. While many will likely receive compliments on their performance, constructive criticism usually comes along too.

When the negative feedback is valid and insightful, it can actually be beneficially, giving you clear ideas on how you can improve in the coming year. However, when the negative feedback feels blatantly false or unjustified, dealing with the situation can become a challenge.

Luckily, there are things you can do to address any disconnect between what your manager is telling you and what you believe is true. If you disagree with points in your year-end evaluation, here’s how to handle the conversation.

Request Examples

If you are being criticized for a lack of timeliness, but you haven’t been late to work (or even a meeting) in your life, that is understandably frustrating. Similarly, if you are told that you don’t take the initiative but personally spearheaded multiple projects that fall outside of your job description, you’ll likely be a bit at a loss for words.

Whenever you receive feedback that doesn’t seem to align with your performance, ask your manager to provide you with examples of your missteps. This helps you gain clarity regarding their perspective and may lead you to hear details that didn’t immediately spring into your mind.

In cases, where they can’t think of an example, this betters your position. It either gives you grounds to discuss how the feedback may not be valid (or accurate) or may lead your manager to realize that they are mistaken, eliminating your need to participate further in the discussion as the misalignment practically resolves itself.

Thank Them

While it may seem counterintuitive, thanking your manager for their input is a smart move. Ideally, constructive criticism (even if someone inaccurate) is a sign that they want to see you succeed and they are trying to steer you in the right direction.

Take a moment to thank them for their feedback and let them know you appreciate their insights and bringing the point to your attention.

Respectfully Disagree

Once you’ve completed the first two steps, you are in a position to respectfully disagree. While it can be a nerve-wracking experience, largely because it may make you seem argumentative or closed to constructive criticism, it is necessary if your manager is genuinely out of line.

However, only openly disagree if you can provide clear examples that contrast with the feedback. That way, you are backing up your position and making the reason behind your perspective easier to see.

Ask Follow-Up Questions

After respectfully disagreeing, don’t end the conversation there. Instead, if your boss responds calmly to your disagreement with their assessment, include a question that can further the discussion. For example, if you were accused of not taking the initiative, you can ask if there is an approach that can make your efforts more immediately visible. This shows your willingness to engage in further conversation regarding the perception of your actions and are hoping to find a viable solution that meets everyone’s needs.

By following the tips above, you can disagree with your year-end evaluation in a respectful, professional, and constructive manner. If you’d like to learn more, the professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to discuss your questions or concerns with one of our knowledgeable staff members today and see how our workplace expertise can benefit you. If you’re ready to start a new job this year, click this link to check out our newest openings!

The Best Gift You Can Give Yourself (and Your Career)

Raza Rauf on December 24, 2018

Self confidence is often touted as the key to success and, in many ways, it is. But those who extoll its virtues, especially individuals who seem to possess it naturally, can’t always articulate what to do if you are lacking in the self confidence department.

Luckily, self confidence is a gift you can give yourself. With a little time and addition, you can increase your self esteem by focusing on key points about yourself. Here’s how to get started.

Take a Self-Inventory

If you are alive today, you have skills; it’s that simple. By doing a self-inventory and recognizing what you bring to the table, you can increase your self-esteem and, by association, your self confidence.

Start by considering work tasks that you enjoy because, usually, if you like them, it’s because you have skills that help you excel in that area. Similarly, consider any challenges you’ve faced and how you overcame them. Any accomplishment is a source of valuable information for a self-inventory, including those in your personal life.

As you make a list, don’t neglect soft skills and personality traits that you value. Being a good communicator, having an even temperament under pressure, and anything else in those realms should also make the list.

Reach Out to Your Nearest and Dearest

Sometimes, examining your strengths objectively isn’t easy. Many people who lack self confidence have a tendency to downplay their attributes, or assume they don’t have any at all.

However, that is almost never the case; everyone has something amazing to offer. If you are having trouble with your self-inventory, reach out to those you are closest with and get their input. Friends, family, and even trusted co-workers can be excellent parts of the conversation.

Review Past Assessments

Sometimes, you have indications of your strengths and might not realize it. Any past assessment, like a performance review or even a test grade, can help you see what you have to offer. Review your documents and see what was said about your work, and use that to help boost your confidence. In fact, keep positive emails, reviews, and anything else in a folder together, as it can be a source of confidence-boosting information whenever you need one.

Similarly, if you’ve received verbal praise for a job well-done, consider that too. Write down what you did and what was said, and save that with your other information. That way, you have another source for a pick-me-up should you ever need a reminder about your capabilities.

By following the tips above, you can give yourself and your career one of the best gifts of all this season: self confidence. If you would like to learn more about what you can do, the skilled team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to discuss your questions with one of our highly knowledgeable staff members today and see how our expertise can help you make this gift part of your reality. Check out these new open positions today!

Can You Keep Employees Engaged During the Busiest Time of the Year?

Raza Rauf on December 21, 2018

When employees are scrambling at work and juggling personal responsibilities related to the holidays, keeping them engaged on the job becomes increasingly challenging. After all, your staff likely has a lot on their mind, and not all of it relates to their position.

Luckily, there are things you can do to boost engagement, ensuring that the company remains as productive as possible during even the most chaotic seasons. If you want to know what you can do, here are some tips to get you started.

Don’t Force Joy

While the holidays are usually a joyous time of year, they are also incredibly stressful. But companies often want to make the most of the season by injecting “fun” into the environment, hoping that it will help workers feel appreciated and, subsequently, more loyal and engaged.

Even though recognition is beneficial to morale, trying to force everyone to be joyous is actually counterproductive. If workers feel like they have to maintain a fake smile and express faux happiness at every turn, their stress levels actually rise.

If you want to add some fun to the environment to boost engagement, just make sure it doesn’t feel mandatory. For example, while hosting an ugly sweater contest is fine, clearly state the employees are not obligated to participate. The same goes for other group events, like potlucks and after work celebrations.

Provide Autonomy

Autonomy allows an employee to take ownership of a task. While they may need to achieve a particular outcome, how they get there is in their control.

When a worker has some level of autonomy, they not only get to choose approaches that work best for them, but they may also experience an increase in job satisfaction. Motivation may also rise, as they are personally invested in the steps they choose to take.

However, make sure your team also has access to sources of support. Autonomy doesn’t mean you abandon them. Instead, you merely give them room to breathe. Make sure they know who is available should they have questions or need input. That way, the autonomy can feel like a benefit instead of a punishment.

Add Flexibility

If your workplace can support it, consider instituting a flexible scheduling policy during the holidays. This can help your staff achieve greater work-life balance, enabling them to adjust when they complete specific tasks and accommodating personal obligations.

While adding structure to a flexible scheduling program is a must, such as dictating mandatory core work hours or defining minimum manning requirements, even a bit of adaptability can go a long way. That way, your employees don’t have to be distracted by personal challenges, as they can choose to address them without having to miss work time.

By following the tips above, you can keep your employees engaged during the busiest time of year. If you would like to learn more about how you can improve engagement in the workplace, the skilled team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to discuss your goals or concerns with one of our knowledgeable staff members today and see how our employee engagement expertise can benefit you.

Sick of a Long, Cold Commute? Find a Job Closer to Home!

Raza Rauf on December 17, 2018

If you ask professionals to discuss their favorite part of their workday, odds are they won’t talk about their commute. Typically, the time spent getting to and from work is an inconvenience; minutes or hours that workers would prefer spending with their families, being productive, or simply relaxing.

In America, the average commute is 26 minutes one way, or 52 minutes round trip. However, since that is merely an average, that means there are tons of professionals who spend more time on the road than that. During the winter months, committing so much time to your commute can be exhausting

If you are sick of your long, cold commute, finding a job closer to home may be the best solution. It gives you an opportunity to reclaim minutes (or potentially hours) that are typically spent on the road, decreasing stress and possibly even increasing your job satisfaction. If you aren’t sure how to conduct a job search that focuses on convenient locations, here’s how to get started.

Find Your Target Zone

When decreasing the length of your commute is one of your primary goals, your first step for your job search is to identify your target zone. Start by considering the length of your commute as it stands today and then determine the maximum duration you would prefer having. This will help you map out potential areas based on the location of your home.

While you can figure this out by simply using a map, there are also approaches that ensure you don’t have to do the legwork. For example, many large real estate websites have mapping software that features a variety of overlays, including one focused on commute times. This allows you to see how far you can drive in a specific time frame based on your home’s address.

Once you have your target zone, use that information to identify companies within that area. That way, when you explore available positions, you can use your commute time goals like any other job search criteria.

Partner With a Recruitment Firm

Staffing agencies have in-depth knowledge of their local communities, making them ideal resources when you want to find a job closer to home. In fact, recruitment firms can consider any potential job search criteria you may have, allowing you to identify your ideal role quickly and efficiently.

When you partner with The Advance Group to find your next position, you gain access to experienced professionals who not only know how to conduct an effective job search but can also connect you with leading employers throughout the area. Plus, they may be aware of vacancies that are not advertised to the public, giving you options that may not be accessible if you conduct all of your job search on your own.

If reducing the length of your commute is your number one priority, The Advance Group can create a search based on your wishes. If you want to land a job closer to home, let the team at The Advance Group help you locate your ideal role. Contact us to discuss your perfect position with one of our skilled recruiters today and see how our hiring and job search services can make finding an opportunity with a shorter commute as easy as possible.

3 Ways Tech Can Improve Employee Health

Raza Rauf on December 14, 2018

The basics of good health have remained largely unchanged over the decades, focusing on key points like getting exercise, eating balanced diets, and getting sufficient sleep. However, how people monitor success in these arenas has changed dramatically, predominately thanks to technology.

When it comes to good health, the benefits extend beyond the person’s own life. Healthier people tend to be happier, more capable employees too. But it today’s world where everyone feels pressed for time, staying healthy isn’t as easy as it sounds on the surface. Luckily, there are things employers can do to help their staff achieve their health-related goals.

With that in mind, here are three ways tech can improve your employees’ health.

1. Encourage Activity With Challenges

Nearly everyone has access to a device that can track their activity, particularly since the vast majority of smartphones can add an app to handle the task. However, merely having a tracker isn’t enough if you aren’t motivated to get moving.

Companies can encourage their staff to be more active through friendly activity challenges. Often, these can be based on some kind of points system, though the mechanism can vary depending on the types of exercise you include in the challenge.

Just make sure that, when you design the program, you give options that don’t require people to join teams. Not everyone is as extroverted as everyone else, so providing the ability to go solo can ensure that all of your employees feel comfortable.

2. Embrace Workspace Improvements

Standup desks garnered a lot of attention as a means of avoiding the health consequences of too much sitting. However, employees are rarely able to update their workspaces to include them on their own, leaving these adjustments firmly in the hands of their employers.

If you want to encourage better health, consider investing in equipment that can make each workspace more beneficial. This can include the aforementioned standing desks or even alternatives, like bike pedals that can fit underneath a desk or balance balls that can be used in place of chairs.

While these solutions aren’t all technically advanced, some versions come with tech features that can help a person track their activity, allowing them to fall into the category.

3. Cross-Platform Information

If you ask your workers what their favorite way to communicate in the office is, you’ll likely get a range of answers. Some may favor collaboration software while others prefer email. Text messages may suit your younger workers best while others may want notifications on the intranet home page.

To use technology to your advance, make sure all health and wellness communications are sent across multiple platforms. Use web development options that allow your intranet to have a responsive design, adjusting to each type of device. Summarize the information and sent it out in a mass text, including a link to get more information. If the details aren’t proprietary, share the message on social media.

By embracing different communication technologies, you can reach more of your staff, ensuring that they have the information they need to improve their health.

If you would like to learn more about how you can use technology to promote better health, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to discuss your goals today and see how our workplace wellness expertise can benefit you.

Is a Shipping/Receiving Job Right for You?

Raza Rauf on December 10, 2018

Shipping and receiving workers are critical parts of many light industrial manufacturing and warehouse environments. They ensure that incoming items are properly received and stored, and outgoing products are correctly packaged and prepared for shipment.

Without shipping/receiving positions, operations would grind to a halt in many environments. This means there are usually opportunities available in the field. But the big question is, is a shipping/receiving job right for you?

Do You Like to Stay Moving?

While a shipping and receiving role may or may not involve heavy lifting, it does include a lot of movement. You’ll likely need to move throughout the facility, bend and stretch to reach items, move boxes or individual products, and otherwise be physically active during the day.

Essentially, shipping and receiving jobs tend to keep your moving. Depending on the environment, it can also be fast-paced work, making the positions much more active than some people would expect. If being able to use your whole body to accomplish tasks appeals to you, shipping/receiving might be right for you.

Are You Detail-Oriented?

Shipping and receiving professionals need strong attention to detail. Whether you are picking items to fulfill an order or reviewing a shipping document to make sure everything arrived, accuracy is a necessity. Otherwise, the inventory numbers may be off, a customer could become upset, or the company could end up paying for items they didn’t receive.

Additionally, if you are in a role that involves picking products for shipment, you may need to match barcodes or UPC numbers to order sheets. UPCs have 12 digits, and some products that look similar have barcode numbers that are very close to each other. The same can go for item or part numbers, whether they are universal or only used internally. Being able to read them carefully and make the right matches is essential and requires a detail-oriented mindset.

If you enjoy tracking the minutia and have a knack for avoiding mistakes, shipping and receiving might be right for you.

Do You Like Working as Part of a Team?

Shipping and receiving employees rarely work alone. Instead, they are part of a larger team, even if they handle orders individually. This means you can benefit from a sense of camaraderie, as most goals associated with these roles are shared with your co-workers. It creates a “we’re in this together” mentality, and that can be very motivating.

Additionally, it adds a social component to the job. Having strong communication skills is typically essential, as it ensures that you remain on the same page as everyone else.

If you enjoy working directly with others, then working in shipping and receiving might be a great choice.

Ultimately, if everything above sounds like an ideal job, consider shipping/receiving opportunities. If you would like to learn more about current vacancies, the professionals at The Advance Group can help you explore your options. Contact us to find out about our available positions today and see how our career expertise can benefit you.

Rewarding Employees Without Breaking the Bank

Raza Rauf on December 7, 2018

When you manage an exceptional team, wanting to reward their effort is completely natural. However, many companies can’t afford to spend a bundle on their employees, or even just their top performers. When options like expensive gifts, generous bonuses, or raises aren’t affordable, it can be frustrating. This is especially true if you want to make sure your staff feels valued, something that is critical for retention.

Luckily, you can reward your employees without breaking the bank. If you aren’t sure where to start, here are a few options worth exploring.

Work-Life Balance

When administered properly, flexible scheduling and telecommuting programs can function as rewards. If the entire team consistently meets or exceeds expectations, letting them explore alternative arrangements – like compressed work weeks, work-from-home options, or flexible hours – can actually boost overall productivity while providing greater work-life balance.

If you can support such a program, them make sure to craft a formal policy that outlines the rules. For example, if everyone needs to be available during core work hours or minimal in-office staffing levels must be maintained, make sure that is listed in the policy.

Professional Development

Unless your entire team has reached the peak of their career, offering opportunities that help them learn and grow in their field can serve as great rewards. Plus, the company gets to benefit from the employee’s increased skill set, which can increase productivity, help prevent skill gaps, and more.

While formal training is always an option on the table, it can be expensive. Similarly, sending workers to industry conferences can be a great approach, but might not suit your budget.

If you need to find low-cost professional development approaches, opt for alternatives like mentoring programs and job shadowing opportunities. These arrangements give your team a chance to advance their skills or explore new arenas, while other professionals get to pass down their knowledge.

Another option is to give your top performers first pick when new projects come available. This may allow them to explore areas of interest and expand their knowledge, giving them a chance to learn while simultaneously boosting engagement.

Workplace Improvements

Since your team spends so much time at work, providing improvements to the environment can function as a reward, making their workspaces more comfortable and pleasant. When your staff feels good about the physical space, morale can increase.

You can improve any areas that benefit the workers. For example, adding amenities to the break room may be appreciated if it increases convenience. Providing ergonomic chairs or standup desks can enhance individual workspaces, making them more comfortable and functional.

While these items do come with a price tag, they may be more affordable than certain other rewards, so consider exploring them if you have some room in the budget.

Ultimately, all of the options above can serve as rewards, allowing you to demonstrate your appreciation without breaking the bank. If you’d like to learn about other approaches, the team at The Advance Group can help you explore options that align with your budget. Contact us to discuss your employee recognition goals today and see how our workplace management expertise can benefit you.

5 Light Industrial Jobs You Can Land Before 2019

Raza Rauf on December 3, 2018

If a landing a new job is one of your goals for the upcoming year, why not get a head start on your resolutions and land one before 2019 begins? There are many light industrial opportunities available with some of the area’s leading companies, and many of them will allow you to start before everyone rings in the new year.

Here are five light industrial jobs that are available right now.

1. Assembly

A company in Monroe is looking for a new person to join their assembly team. If you have the ability to use hand tools, are familiar with measuring devices, and have even a little blueprint reading experience, this opportunity may be ideal for you.

While a flexible schedule is required, the position begins on the day shift, 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Plus, it has the ability to go permanent, meaning you may secure a long-term role with this exceptional employer.

2. Material Handler

A Monroe-based company that specializes in automotive packaging and distribution is looking for a material handler with forklift experience. The job focuses on operating a forklift, material handling, and order picking.

Multiple positions are available, giving you a chance to potentially work on either the first shift (7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) or second shift (4:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.), Monday through Friday. Plus, if you are selected for a permanent position, you will receive a pay raise upon hire.

3. Packaging

A manufacturing company in Dundee that produces products for the electrical and plumbing industry is seeking a reliable worker to join their packaging department. In the role, you would package various parts or otherwise prepare parts for shipment. Based on the nature of the work, some heavy lifting is required.

This temp-to-hire position is on a swing shift, 4:30 p.m. to 3:00 a.m., Monday through Friday. If selected for a permanent role, opportunities for further advancement are also available.

4. Warehouse

An immediate opening is available with equine fence manufacturer in Swanton. They are seeking a new employee to join their warehouse team. Attention to detail is essential, as well as a high level of accuracy. Heavy lifting is required, as well as experience operating a forklift and general computer literacy.

The position is on the day shift, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and may require the occasional Saturday.

5. Machine Operator

A manufacturing company in Monroe is looking for a skilled machine operator to join their company. The position entails operative several screw extrusion and ram extrusion machines, as well as other duties like filling hoppers, inspecting parts, using measuring devices, and more.

While training takes place on the first shift, 7:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, other options are available once training is complete. One to three years of machine operating experience is required, along with computer knowledge and familiarity with measuring devices.

If you are interested in any of the light industrial positions above or would like to learn about additional opportunities, the professionals at The Advance Group want to hear from you. Contact us to learn more about our vacant positions today and see how our services can help you land a new job before 2019.