How Should You Assign Staff To Specific Jobs, Tasks Or Projects

My blog focuses on Organizational/Management Discussions and Workplace Discussions. As a manager, one of your most important tasks is to properly assign work to your staff. The following contributed post is entitled, How Should You Assign Staff To Specific Jobs, Tasks Or Projects.

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It’s not always easy to manage staff even if you have a fantastic workforce ready and raring to get started. Staring at a list of tasks that need completing and a roster of available staff, trying to figure out who should handle what, it all feels a bit like if you make one choice, you’re by implication not picking the perfect one.

Of course, some employees excel at certain tasks but struggle with others, while some are great all-rounders who could slot in anywhere. But it’s also important to consider avilability, skill levels, and those tricky personality matches to consider – perhaps your two best people don’t work with one another that well.

The real secret here is to make sure whoever you assign are applied in a way that keeps both your clients and your team happy. While your team knows they have a job to do and are contract-bound to do it, poorly matched assignments don’t solely affect the quality of work, they can make an employee into someone who dreads coming in each morning.

Now, your workers are here to work, and so it’s important not to dance around the idea of assigning it to them. But doing so with intelligence takes a little time. Let’s see what that might mean:

Balancing Strengths & Preferences

Everyone has those tasks they naturally gravitate towards, as some people love the detailed, methodical work that would drive others up the wall, while others appreciate the variety and new challenges. Cleaning company software like this can help track these preferences and successes over time, showing you exactly who excels at what, assigning teams to disparate outcomes each night, or planning more intensive work when it’s needed and splitting that into segments. It’s amazing how much smoother operations run when you tap into these natural strengths.

Building Balanced Workloads

Throwing all your complex tasks at your best performers might seem logical, and perhaps it would be in a video game where it’s only about resource management and control, but this is a quick route to burnout. If you can spread larger jobs in a way that challenges people without overwhelming them, like assessing how many people it will take to cover a site properly, that can help. You can also mix easier tasks with more demanding ones – such as making sure kitchen staff closing the kitchen down don’t have to perfect all the washing up in kind.

Managing The Human Element

That odd truth is that sometimes the perfect person for a job on paper turns out to be completely wrong in practice, as maybe they clash with other team members, or perhaps they just don’t click with certain clients. Paying attention to these less obvious factors, like personality fits and working styles, often matters more than pure technical skill. Now, that doesn’t mean a staff member should not work for a client just because they don’t like them – the criminal defense field wouldn’t exist if that were the case. But still, consider affability, connection and care, especially if assigning a team member to a long-term staff member. Maybe a hairdresser has a real rapport with your elderly clients, for instance.

With this advice, we hope you can create more effective task assignments that work for everyone involved.

Taking the Next Career Step: How to Improve Your Chances

Two focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and General Education. Careers are not necessarily static things and instead can be very fluid depending on any number of factors. The same is true for advancement in any organization or in a mid-career pivot. The following guest post is entitled, Taking the Next Career Step: How to Improve Your Chances.

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Career development is essential for people of all ages and experience levels. Evaluating and improving your career trajectory can lead to increased satisfaction in life, excellent professional stability, and enhanced financial security. This benefits both individuals and society as a whole.

Statistics show that 72% of American workers feel they are not doing work that matches their skills or potential. At the same time, eight in ten believe they could become more productive with better access to training and development opportunities. Furthermore, people who pursue career development opportunities are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs, have higher salaries, and be more productive at work. In addition, actively pursuing career development can lead to a longer-term impact on earnings; research has found that over 18 years, those who sought further education or professional certifications earned 22% more than their peers who did not pursue additional education or certifications.

If you are ready to take the next step in your career, there are several things you can do to improve your chances. Here are a few steps to consider:

Talk to Your Supervisor

Talking to your superiors is a critical part of developing your career trajectory. Doing so can help you identify your specific goals and the necessary steps. It also provides an opportunity to keep up with changing trends in your industry or profession and discover new opportunities for advancement.

Open dialogue with your supervisor can also help you develop skills necessary for workplace success, such as communication and problem-solving. Furthermore, talking to supervisors allows you to build relationships and networks, which often play a crucial role in helping you advance professionally. One study indicates that most job openings are filled through networking activities.

Also, having regular conversations with your superior helps ensure that both parties are on the same page regarding career development plans and expectations. This can be especially useful for employees who have recently changed roles or departments or been promoted to management positions. Discussing progress and expectations helps prevent misunderstandings and keeps both parties focused on achieving mutual goals.

Identify Desired Job Openings

Career development can be an effective way to move forward in your professional life. As you become more proficient and experienced in your field, opportunities for advancement may arise. You might find yourself looking for other job openings as a result of this progress in your career.

Additionally, the changing landscape of the modern workplace might necessitate seeking new job opportunities. The world is becoming increasingly globalized, with international companies operating on multiple continents and digital technology creating massive amounts of data that requires organized analysis and interpretation. With these changes come new roles and career paths, which may need individuals to update their skills or shift their focus from one industry to another. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for getting a better job:

Get Certifications and Education

Preparing for career development sometimes involves increasing your knowledge and skills. Additional certifications or educational qualifications can help you become more competitive in the job market and give employers greater confidence in your capabilities. Furthermore, certifications may also bring increased responsibility, such as management positions or roles with higher salaries.

Improve Resume

Applying for jobs will require you to have a well-crafted resume. Ensure your resume accurately reflects your educational qualifications, professional experience, and any certifications or awards you’ve earned. It should also highlight the skills and qualities that make you stand out from other candidates. If you struggle to create a well-designed work portfolio, you can get resume writing services to help you create an eye-catching resume.

Practice Job Interviews

It would be best if you also took the time to practice for job interviews. This helps you get comfortable with questions that employers might ask and gives you a platform for improving your presentation skills. It is essential to ensure that you come across as confident and competent, and practice can help you learn how to present yourself in an interview setting best.

Invest in Looking Good

How you present yourself will also factor into employers’ decisions. Investing in good quality, professional clothes can help you create a positive first impression. In addition, make sure your nails are clean and neat and your hair is styled correctly for the job role you want to get.

Create a Strong Professional Network

Building a solid network is another critical factor in career development. Establishing relationships with peers, mentors, and colleagues can help you gain insights into your field and introduce you to potential job openings. Please ensure your professional social media profiles are up-to-date and include all the relevant qualifications and experiences. Finally, consider joining a professional organization or attending industry events, as these can be excellent sources of information and potential contacts.

Final Thoughts

Career development is essential for increasing job satisfaction and financial security. Taking the time to evaluate your career trajectory and consider the steps you need to take to improve it can have beneficial long-term effects. By following these steps and putting forth consistent effort over time, you can build a successful career that brings increased joy and purpose.

5 Hacks On Comparing And Searching For Reliable Professional Jobs Abroad

Two focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and General Education. There are more employment opportunities than those available domestically. If you’re going to search abroad, then there are certain keys to keep in mind. The following contributed post is entitled, 5 Hacks On Comparing And Searching For Reliable Professional Jobs Abroad.

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So you’ve decided to take the plunge and search for professional jobs abroad? Congratulations! Making the decision to live and work in a new country is an exciting adventure. But it can also be daunting, especially when it comes to finding a job that will meet your needs and expectations. How do you know which countries are best for your skillset? How can you be sure that you’re applying for the correct positions? And how do you avoid scams? This blog post will discuss 5 hacks for comparing and searching for reliable, professional jobs abroad.

1) Research potential destinations:

When choosing your next destination, it pays to do some research. Look into local job markets, the availability of visas and work permits, and the cost of living in different countries. Make sure to read up on any tax implications for foreign workers as well. This can help you narrow down your search so that you’re only looking at places where you have a good chance of finding suitable employment.

2) Build an online portfolio:

Once you’ve chosen your destination(s), it’s time to start building an online portfolio showcasing your qualifications, experience, and skillset. Having a comprehensive profile on professional networking sites like LinkedIn or Upwork will make it much easier for recruiters from abroad to find and contact you. Include links to any relevant websites or projects you’ve worked on and any certifications you may have, for instance, traveling rn jobs in multiple specialties.

3) Get familiar with job search platforms

When it comes to comparing and searching for reliable, professional jobs abroad, job search platforms are an invaluable resource. Familiarizing yourself with the most popular job search websites in your destination country of choice is important. These sites offer a wide variety of listings for various positions and industries, allowing you to quickly compare salaries, benefits, work hours, and other relevant details. Furthermore, you can often filter through listings according to the profession, location, or experience level; this helps narrow down the list of potential jobs and make it easier to find ones that best suit your needs. Many job search platforms also provide advice on resume writing and interviewing techniques, making them even more helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the language or customs in your new home country.

Via Pexels

4) Reach out to recruiters directly:

When looking for professional jobs abroad, it is important to reach out to recruiters directly. Not only will this give you access to more information about potential roles and opportunities, but it can also help to build valuable relationships with people in the destination country. To get started, use job search platforms such as Upwork and LinkedIn to connect with recruiters in your chosen destination. Make sure you have an up-to-date CV and portfolio showcasing your qualifications and experience, as well as any certifications that may be relevant. You should also research the local job market, visa requirements, cost of living, and tax implications for foreign workers so that you’re fully informed about what to expect when applying for a position abroad. Building meaningful relationships with recruiters is essential in order to secure a reliable, professional job abroad.

5) Use online review sites:

When comparing and searching for reliable, professional jobs abroad, using online review sites can be incredibly useful. Reviews from current or former employees can provide a wealth of information about potential employers and job opportunities. By reading reviews, job seekers can gain insight into the company culture, benefits packages, average salaries, and even how friendly the management team is. This insight allows individuals to determine if the position is suitable for them before committing to an application or interview process. Furthermore, reviews can help potential applicants identify red flags that may go unnoticed. For example, reviews may flag instances of discrimination or a toxic work environment; such information can then be used to avoid positions that do not align with an individual’s values or preferences. Ultimately, online review sites offer unparalleled access to inside knowledge that would otherwise remain hidden during the job search process; thus making it easier for job seekers to find reliable, professional jobs abroad that are well-suited to their skillset and expectations.

In conclusion, finding professional jobs abroad is a great way to explore new destinations and gain valuable experiences. However, it pays to do some due diligence beforehand. With proper planning and research into your destination of choice, familiarity with job search platforms, networking opportunities, online reviews, and government initiatives, you have every chance of securing a reliable role abroad.

The Excitement Of Your First Position In The Professional World

Two focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and General Education. Landing your first job is a big deal once you get it. You journey is just beginning once you get there though. The following contributed post is entitled, The Excitement Of Your First Position In The Professional World.

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Landing your first job is an exciting time in any professional’s career. It can be a challenge but also a chance to learn and grow. This blog post will discuss the excitement of landing your first job and what to expect from your new career!

1) The first step in your career is landing your first job:

This can be a challenge but also a chance to learn and grow. The excitement of landing your first job comes from the sense of accomplishment and the new opportunities that it provides.

In addition, your first job is a chance to start building your professional network. This network will be essential as you move forward in your career, so it’s important to make connections and build relationships from the start; if you don’t know where to start, perhaps you’re in a medical career, seek the help of physician recruiters, there are a lot of professional agencies available ready to assist you.

2) It’s time to get to work:

Now that you’ve landed your first job, it’s time to get to work! This means showing up on time, being prepared for meetings, and putting your best foot forward. Adjusting to a new work environment can be tough, but remember that this is an opportunity to learn and grow.

Requirements that will cause you to be a success:

● A positive attitude
● Strong work ethic
● Professionalism

Via Pexels

3) Don’t be afraid to ask questions:

As you start your new job, you may find yourself with more questions than answers. This is perfectly normal! Don’t be afraid to ask questions of your colleagues and supervisors. They were in your shoes at one point and can provide valuable guidance and insights.

4) Your first job will be a learning experience:

You will be able to learn new skills and knowledge that will help you in your future career goals. There may be some challenges along the way, but this is all part of the learning process.

Some of the ups and downs you will experience could be:

● Getting to know your co-workers and establishing relationships
● Learning the ropes of your new job and what is expected of you
● Adjusting to a new work schedule and lifestyle

5) Be prepared for the future:

Your first job is just the beginning of your career. It’s important to use this experience to set yourself up for success in the future. This means planning ahead, networking, and continuing to learn and grow.

6) Be open to feedback

In order to grow and develop in your career, it’s essential to be open to feedback. This feedback can come from your supervisor, colleagues, or even clients. Use this feedback to improve your performance and reach your goals.

In conclusion, landing your first job is an exciting time in any professional’s career. It can be a challenge but also a chance to learn and grow. Use this experience to set yourself up for success in the future, and don’t be afraid to ask questions along the way!

Must-Learn Tools for Every Job Hunter

Two focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and General Education. If you’re hunting for a new job, there are certain tools that would be advantageous to have under your belt. The following guest post is entitled, Must-Learn Tools for Every Job Hunter.

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As anyone in the tech industry will tell you, technology is constantly evolving. Even if you’re not particularly interested in technology, staying up to date with the latest developments is crucial. Why? Because having a basic understanding of technology can open up more opportunities for you, both in terms of job prospects and general life skills.

For example, let’s say you’re applying for a job requiring basic Excel knowledge for data analysis. If you don’t know how to use Excel, you’re at a disadvantage compared to other candidates. Of course, you can learn as you go. Still, suppose you can demonstrate that you have at least a familiarity with the software. In that case, you’re much more likely to land the job than someone who has no experience with it whatsoever.

Similarly, suppose you know how to use specific software or hardware. In that case, you’ll find it much easier to get by in everyday life. In an increasingly digital world, being able to navigate your way around a computer or that recently launched smartphone is an essential life skill.

So even if you don’t consider yourself particularly tech-savvy, it’s worth taking time to familiarize yourself with the latest technologies. You never know when it might come in handy. There are a few standard tools that most, if not all, companies and organizations use daily. Here are just a few of the must-have tools for every office:

File Storage and Sharing

The internet has made things a lot easier for individuals and businesses when storing and sharing files. There are now many online tools that allow you to store files securely and share them with others easily, regardless of where they are in the world. For example, Dropbox can store files in the cloud and access them from your computer, phone, or tablet. You can also share files with others and collaborate on projects in real-time.

Project Management Software

Project management software is a must-have for any office. It can help keep track of deadlines, tasks, and project progress. There are many different options available, so it’s essential to find one that fits the needs of your office. Some popular project management software programs include Asana, Trello, and Basecamp. They all have different features, so it’s worth trying out a few before settling on one.

Social Media Management

Social media management tools make it easy for businesses to manage their social media accounts. These tools allow companies to post updates, track analytics, and more. There are many different social media management tools available, so it’s essential to find one that fits the needs of your business. Some popular social media management tools include Hootsuite, Sprout Social, and Buffer. On the other hand, most social media platforms have built-in mechanisms for businesses to use, such as Facebook Insights and Twitter Analytics.

Web Conferencing and Screen Sharing

Software for web conferencing allows teams to meet online. At the same time, screen-sharing platforms make it easy to share documents and ideas. These tools are essential for communication and collaboration. Some popular options include Zoom, GoToMeeting, and Join. Me. Web conferencing tech is used for more than business meetings and collaborations because many companies also use these for online team training or seminars. It’s a great way to keep your employees engaged and up-to-date on the latest company procedures without leaving the office.

Note-taking Apps

Several different note-taking apps are available, each with its own set of features that allows users to jot down quickly and share notes. Some even allow you to record. The best aspect of these apps is you don’t have to worry about accidentally deleting or losing them. They often have backups, especially if you keep your device in sync. Some popular note-taking apps include Google Keep, Microsoft OneNote, and Evernote.

Communication apps

Communication apps are a must-have for any office. They allow co-workers to easily communicate with each other, whether in the same room or in different parts of the world. Some popular communication apps include Slack and Skype. These apps make it easy for workers to stay in touch beyond the formalities of a work email. However, overusing these apps for work can easily blur the lines between work and life. So, it’s best to use them only during working hours by learning how to turn off notifications or control yourself from responding to that work message sent on a weekend.

It’s essential to learn the right tools in any office, whether for data-keeping, reporting, or simply communicating with co-workers. That’s because knowing the right tools can make a big difference in your efficiency, productivity, and overall performance in the workplace.

How To Make Yourself A Better Candidate

Two focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and General Education. No matter which career or path in life you choose, you have to think about how to keep improving. The following contributed post is entitled, How To Make Yourself A Better Candidate.

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The job you really want isn’t only the job of your dreams; if it’s as good as you think it is, then it’ll be the job of many other people’s dreams, too. And that means that there’ll be plenty of people applying for the position. Of course, you likely did not need us to tell you that. If you’ve applied to any worthwhile job in your adult life, then you’ll know just how competitive the best jobs can be.

That’s not something that you can change. However, what you can influence is how appealing you are as a candidate. In this blog, we’ll look at some tried and tested tips for doing just that. Take them all on board, and you’ll likely find that you get called for many more interviews than before!

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Continue Improving Yourself

You’ll be raring to go once you enter the job market. But a job might not come straight away. In some cases, you might be waiting a while for your dream job to come along. In the meantime, you can help elevate your chances of being successful by continuing to improve yourself. This could take the form of studying courses, improving your skills, or anything else. That way, when you do make it to the interview round, you’ll be able to talk about what you’re currently doing, not only what you’ve done in the past.

Put Yourself In a Position To Succeed

You can enhance your chances by putting yourself in a position to succeed. By this, we mean reading up on what you may need to do in order to be offered a job. Many companies, especially big companies, have their own hiring process, and not every aspect of this process is a mystery. If you were applying for Boston Consulting Group, for instance, then you could learn about the BCG pymetrics test. Google also has its own set of thought-provoking questions that it asks candidates, many examples of which you can find online.

Only Apply For Jobs You Want

It takes a lot of work to apply for a job. Or, at least, it should. If you’re applying for any and all jobs as a way to increase your chances, then we’ve got some bad news — you’ll probably be reducing your chances of receiving a positive response. It’s important to only apply to the jobs that you really want, as this will ensure that you put in the necessary amount of time. While companies do receive a lot of applications, the majority will be pretty low-quality. Stand out from the crowd by really making your application a good one.

Read Widely About Your Industry

Finally, you can show your prospective employers that you’re serious by showing that you know not only about their company but about the industry they work in. If you can show that you have a deep understanding of the industry, then you’ll be making yourself valuable. Employers always want to have experts on their team, and that’s just what you’ll be.

Why You Should Quit Your Office Job And Work Outdoors

“If you feel dissatisfied with your work, you’re not alone. Many employees are tired of their office jobs and want to move on. More than 80 percent aren’t happy in their current roles, and 79 percent say that they have been passed over for a promotion.”

Two focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and General Education. Despite having natural gift for working outside and in blue collar fields, many people were shunted towards white collar education. Some white collar workers arrive at a point where they ponder leaving the office. The following contributed post is entitled, Why You Should Quit Your Office Job And Work Outdoors.

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Office jobs tend to pay well but, as we all know, they can be unfulfilling. After you show up for work for the thousandth time, you wonder what it’s all about. Why are you just going to a cubicle every day to type on a computer? Surely, there’s a better way.

When you take a step back and look at your office job for what it is, you see all sorts of reasons to quit. Perhaps you hate your job, or you find the working environment difficult. Maybe the schedules and hours are wrong, or you don’t like the fact that you’re indoors all the time. It feels cloistered and it makes you feel tired all the time.

If you feel dissatisfied with your work, you’re not alone. Many employees are tired of their office jobs and want to move on. More than 80 percent aren’t happy in their current roles, and 79 percent say that they have been passed over for a promotion.

For many, the solution is to work freelance and just do their own thing. But for some, the real problem is the environment. Not being outside can take its toll on your health and happiness in unexpected ways.

Fortunately, there are many careers that allow you to get outside. Construction is perhaps the most obvious. To get into the industry, you will need to book a CSCS test online. Then, once you pass, you can get into the industry.

Other options include marine biologist, lifeguard, geologist, wildland firefighter, and adventure tour guide. Here are some reasons to get outside:

Reduce Stress

Perhaps the biggest reason for getting outside is that it improves your mood. When you are in the open air, you naturally feel better than when stuck indoors for hours at a time, particularly in the winter when the days are shorter.

Stress is a major factor in office work. Many employees feel like they are unable to make progress or move forwards. For some, the lack of physical activity takes a toll on their well-being and makes them feel tired all the time.

Of course, you might be worried about quitting your office job and starting fresh in a different career because of money, and that is certainly something to think about, but your health and happiness really do have to come first. Plus, you can manage better than you think on less money – you can even buy a property if you take a look at Concierge Auctions reviews to help you get started.

Of course, you might be worried about quitting your office job and starting fresh in a different career because of money, and that is certainly something to think about, but your health and happiness really do have to come first. Plus, you can manage better than you think on less money – you can even buy a property if you take a look at Concierge Auctions reviews to help you get started.

Improved Health

A few years ago, the news broke that sitting was the new smoking. Office workers up and down the country rushed to get standing desks (and even desks with treadmills).

Unfortunately, though, there’s no real substitute for actually being outdoors and moving your body naturally. While standing is better than sitting, the body still isn’t moving as much as nature intended. Human beings are wired for space. They want to move long distances.

Then there’s the sunlight issue. That’s another scarce resource in the office but essential for health, in the right doses. Being outside in the sun enables the body to produce vitamin D which is vital for multiple purposes, including preventing disease.

Improved Energy Levels

Lastly, being outside helps to boost energy levels. When we move around, we actually generate more energy in ourselves, both short and long-term. Outdoor careers allow you to combine the need for movement with the need to earn money.

Job Hunting Hacks: Steps To Help You Find Your Next Job

A key focus of my blog is Career Discussions. I the course of pursuing one’s career, there will likely be job changes for one reason or another. Find the next job isn’t always easy or straight forward. The following contributed post is entitled, Job Hunting Hacks: Steps To Help You Find Your Next Job.

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Job hunting is never easy, but in the aftermath of a pandemic, it can be particularly challenging. If you’re currently looking for a job, or you’re thinking about changing careers in the future, here are some steps to take to find your next role.

Update your resume

The first step to take when applying for any kind of job is to update and review your resume. If you haven’t applied for a job for years, or you tend to hit the ‘submit’ button without checking your resume first, it’s essential to take the time to read the information and make sure that it’s up to date. If your resume is out of date, you could be selling yourself short. Include recent developments in your employment history, training and qualifications, and tailor each application to the specific role.

Image by https://pixabay.com/photos/application-keyboard-apply-now-3695107/

Improve your interview skills

Job interviews are daunting, and many of us feel anxious and nervous beforehand. If you tend to experience severe anxiety, or you don’t perform well under pressure, it’s wise to consider doing workshops or classes to help you build confidence, control nerves and navigate the process smoothly. Practice presenting, public speaking and answering questions and go through role-play scenarios. If you get an interview for a job, take your time to respond to questions, arrive on time, make sure you look the part and showcase your personality and passion.

Protect your online reputation

Today, employers can find out about candidates before they even meet them at an interview. If you are hunting for a new job, it’s wise to think about how you come across online. Set your social media profiles and accounts to private, delete posts you have shared in the past that could possibly cause offense or damage your reputation, and investigate services that remove mugshots if you’ve been cleared of charges. If an employer searches for information about you online, you want them to be able to find content or data that create positive impressions. It’s worth checking privacy settings and removing posts or photographs you might not want in the ether before you start submitting applications.

Register with reputable recruitment agencies

It is possible to find jobs without working with recruiters, but registering with a reputable recruitment agency that has an impressive track record can boost your chances of landing a great job. Look for companies that specialize in the industry or sector in which you want to work, update your resume and talk openly about what you’re looking for. Recruiters have relationships with employers and employees and they will notify you if an opening comes up that matches your skill set, experience and preferences.

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https://www.pexels.com/photo/two-woman-in-black-sits-on-chair-near-table-1181605/

Job hunting is challenging at the best of times, but many people are struggling to find the perfect position in the wake of the pandemic. If you are currently looking for a job, or you are considering a change of career, there are steps you can take to maximize your chances of success. Update your resume, tailor each application, hone your interview skills and protect your online reputation. It’s also an excellent idea to register with reliable recruitment agencies and to sign up for online job alerts.

Taking The Best Care Of Your Finances During A Bad Financial Patch

A key focus of my blog is Financial Literacy/Money. Everyone will fall upon some financial hard times. The key is navigating that rough patch and coming out healthy on the back end whether that be saving money or finding another job. The following contributed post is entitled, Taking The Best Care Of Your Finances During A Bad Financial Patch.

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Photo: Unsplash

Managing finances is often a difficult task. Even more so during these turbulent times of Covid-19. One of the worst situations that causes economic crises is unemployment and the current case is no exception. Crises do not warn and often catch people off guard and without a plan of action. Hence the importance of having, among other things, an emergency fund and a plan to reduce some non-essential expenses. However, Covid-19 among all the bad has left us many lessons for humanity, and has made us realize that no one is guaranteed anything. While we can’t control losing our jobs, we can control our financial situation in that scenario. In this article we will give you some recommendations to take care of your money if you are going through a bad financial patch.

1. Make a survival budget

First of all, if your income has decreased or stopped, you must immediately reduce the expenses that are not essential. Keep those that are essential for your day to day. This budget should not be a regular budget, like the one you used to do when you had a fixed income, where an impulsive purchase was possible. Now, it is crucial to think only about what is essential to live as food and shelter. You can also reduce some services such as cable or the gym and look for low-cost fun alternatives such as free events on social networks. This budget should last you for at least three months. This will give you enough time to steady yourself and get things back on track.

2. Be aware of what is coming in and going out

Oftentimes we have credit card repayments, other bills and utilities and may not be fully aware of what they all are. We may have signed up to a subscription years ago and we are still paying the monthly fees for it. Go through everything with a fine tooth comb. This is vital for finances. You may see something on your statement such as Best uber technologies and want to double check what this is. Each item can be broken down so you are on top of your outgoings.

3. Actively seek sources of income

Looking for a job is a full-time job and requires a lot of discipline. Remember that doesn’t mean you have to spend all day sending your CV everywhere. You can opt for alternative jobs while you find the opportunity you’re waiting for. For example, offer your services as a freelancer. Do consultancies or if you have the possibility, undertake. In addition, you can take advantage of the “free” time studying, developing your skills or doing activities that help you enhance your resume in the meantime.

4. Your assets can help you

If the situation gets complicated and debts increase, one option may be to liquidate some of your assets to get the cash you need to cope with the crisis. You can consider non-essential goods that allow you a respite for the time being. Rest assured, when you are in a better situation you will be able to recover them.

5. Claim what’s yours

Finally, this might be the time for you to seek what you’re owed. It might be the case that you’re entitled to workers compensation from a previous employer. If you have been in a position where you feel that’s the case, you should claim what’s yours. This could really help you out of the stressful situation that you’re in right now.

4 Things To Consider Before Accepting A Job Offer

Two focuses of my blog are Career Discussions and Professional Development/Skills. Not only is it important to make sure you’re qualified for a job in terms of your skills, but it’s also important to be able to assess whether or not a potential job is a good fit for you, assuming you’re not under immediate pressure to take it. The following contributed post is entitled, 4 Things To Consider Before Accepting A Job Offer.

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Very often, the excitement of leaving a current job for a new one can cause you to overlook some necessary checks. Forgetting to review your offer could be a missed opportunity to make the best decision for your career and your future. A Gallup poll suggests that in the past year, over 20% of millennials already changed jobs. This same survey also shows that about 43% of the same category of people are already planning to leave current employment in less than three years. Whether or not you are a millennial, it’s crucial to consider these four essential points before accepting your next job offer.

1. Culture

Company culture determines whether or not you will be a good fit for the team or office. Factors such as language, values, company vision, systems, and beliefs, are good things to check out before accepting the offer. Fortunately, the internet makes it easier to do this background check as you consider making a move. The company’s social media platforms, website, and past projects are great places to start. If you know anybody who works for that particular company, ask them how fulfilling they find working there. You could also capitalize on the job interview to ask these crucial questions. Some companies have been sued for negligence and contributing to Mesothelioma (lung cancer) in employees. Because this medical condition resulted from chemical exposure, proven asbestos attorneys were in hot demand and still are. It is just an example of why you need to do your checks before joining any new company.

2. Expectations

Naturally, a manager already has a fair idea of what to expect in a potential employee. You have the right to ask what these expectations are and how they foresee this playing out at the workplace. However, your mission is not to use this feedback as a ploy to build a façade to get recruited, instead it is your opportunity to do a self-assessment to determine if you can deliver on the job. Remember that every company loves to be seen in a positive light and may overstretch their expectations. Be on the look-out for the interviewer’s body language to determine if they are being sincere or trying to sound politically correct in that situation.

3. The Salary, Bonus, and Employee Benefit Schemes

Often, people move from one job to another primarily for better remuneration and other attractive benefits. However, that should never be the main reason to jump ship to the next employer who offers an attractive package. Compare the provided salary with your job role and number of hours you are supposed to work – is it worth it? Also, enquire if the company offers incentives such as health insurance and retirement packages. Make a conscious effort to negotiate the terms without coming across as only being motivated by your wages.

4. The Commute to the New Workplace

Perhaps, your new job offer presented you with everything you ever desired in a career, except for one thing. The distance from your residence to the new office is unbearably far, and your daily commute will be anything but enjoyable. How do you come to terms with this challenge? Some organizations provide a bus to pick up employees from vantage points but are they close to you? Potential employees underestimate this issue and as a result it may create a lack of motivation in the long term. Your daily commute makes a tremendous difference to your job satisfaction.

The thrill of a new job always wanes after a few weeks, so you want to be sure that you have made the right choice accepting an offer. Be sure to consider all these key points before you go ahead and take the plunge.