ABR Blog

In real estate, all agents know the importance of  “location, location, location”.  Property that’s highly visible often sells faster than hard to find real estate.  In your job search, you are selling yourself. In order to make yourself highly visible, and get hired, you need to “follow-up, follow-up, follow-up”.

One of the most challenging things about following up on an application or resume is getting past the gatekeeper – assistants and receptionists who screen calls. It’s their job to make sure only the important calls get put through. You hear common responses like, “she’s busy” or “she’s in a meeting”.

Here are 5 follow-up tips to help you bypass the gatekeeper and reach the hiring authority:

• Ask when it is best to call back. Keep trying at that time every day for 5 business days in a row.
• Ask for the person by first name. Be confident, a voice with authority might get you through right away.
• Call when the gatekeeper is likely to be out of the office – early in the morning, at lunch, or after hours. There’s a good chance the person you are trying to reach answers their own phone after hours.
• When asked about what you are calling about, tell the gatekeeper you’ve been corresponding with the hiring manager and they are expecting your call (DON’T say this UNLESS you have sent an application or resume FIRST).
• If all else fails, ask the gatekeeper for help. Explain that you’ve been trying to reach the hiring manager for some time and you wonder if they have any suggestions on how you can speak to them.

Go on, give it a try.  Using these tips will help you gain an edge over others vying for the same position.

This is the conclusion of our three-part series, How to Survive a Job Search.

Interviews aren’t fun. They don’t always go as planned and sometimes you may find yourself tongue-tied or at a loss for words. Remember these three phrases and your interview will end on a high note — hopefully above that of your competition.

Be Polite

Basic etiquette and conversational skills go far. By setting the tone with a friendly greeting, you’ll both feel more at ease. Many companies are looking for a good personality fit as much as the appropriate list of credentials.

What to say: “Thank you for taking the time to talk with me today. I’m excited for the opportunity to learn more about this position.”

Be Open Minded

When strolling through a job fair, you may be approached by a company representative to discuss a job you think you’re not interested in. Or an interviewer might mention a similar job opening that might be a better fit for you. Hear them out.

What to say: “I’m open to new opportunities so I’d love to hear more information before I determine if the job is right for me.”

 Express Your Interest

At the end of an interview, do you simply walk away with a smile? Not good enough. You want to “close the deal” by reiterating why you’re the right person for the job and how you excited you are for this opportunity.

What to say: “I really do feel that my background and skills are a great fit for this position because [fill in the blank] and I’d love to join the team.”

Don’t forget to prepare yourself the day before with these smart tips to nail your next interview.

This is the second part of our three-part series, How to Survive a Job Search.

You’ve jumpstarted your job search, reached out to your network, and set a schedule for Operation: Find Job. But now it’s becoming more and more difficult to stay motivated. After all, relentlessly surfing the web for your next great opportunity can get old — fast. Breathe a little life into your search by following these mantras:

Don’t Apply to Everything You See…

Quality is better than quantity when it comes to job searching – especially when applying online. You’re much better off spending your time thoughtfully applying to a few positions than blasting out your resume to every open opportunity out there. You should have a general idea of what kind of job you’re looking for. Only apply to the positions that meet your needs. If you’re not sure what kind of position is right for you, ask yourself these questions.

Remember that each application should be tailored to the company and position you’re applying for. That means there might be certain achievements and skills you list on one application that you don’t call out in another. It shows you’re truly interested in working for the company.

…But Remain Open To New Opportunities

If you find yourself stuck in a job hunt rut, ABR Employment offers a free online resource called ABR Job Connect that uses your interests to find the best opportunity for you. There might be a new career out there that fits your skills and personality perfectly, but you’ve never really considered it.

Most companies list communication skills, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work with a team and solve problems as the most important qualities a candidate must have for any position. Think about how your past experiences can translate to a new field. Read more about how ABR Job Connect works.

Use Your Time to Better Yourself…

Don’t feel guilty spending your scheduled job search time on something other than applications. Instead of mindlessly surfing the web, try reading up on your industry, searching a company’s social media presence for insight, or brushing up on your interview skills. When you do land an interview, that knowledge will help you in a big way.

ABR Job Connectalso offers a free comprehensive resume review and a library filled with articles and webinars. A quick fix on your resume or a tweak to your interview etiquette may be all that’s holding you back from landing that job offer.

…But Don’t Lose Focus

Your number one priority is to find a job. Applications must be sent out constantly if you hope to land an interview. Don’t wait for a job to fall in your lap – it’s never going to. But proactively applying and networking will bring results. Search. Apply. Repeat. Stay productive and strong and your job search will come to an end before you know it.

Next week, we’ll feature Part 3 of this series on How to Survive a Job Search.

This is the first part of our three-part series, How to Survive a Job Search.

Finding a job is a full-time job in itself. If you want to be a good employee at Find A Job Now, Inc. you have to take your new mission seriously by creating a schedule and setting goals. It will make you feel more productive and effective, even if you’re still waiting to land that first interview. Here are three goals that will jumpstart your job search in the New Year. In just a few hours, your job search will be on track and you’ll have a leg up on the competition.

Goal: Make a Brag Bulletin
Estimated Time: 1 hour
When it comes to the job search, you’re selling one thing – yourself. Now is not the time to be modest so put yourself in the right frame of mind and get bragging. Brainstorm a list of your best qualities and achievements then rewrite the highlights in résumé form.

Even if you usually just fill out an application in person or online, this document will assist you in filling out new applications. You can easily pull out important information like the dates of your last positions and any relevant achievements. Once you’ve created it, keep your resume up to date even when you have a job.

Goal: Set a Schedule
Estimated Time: 15 minutes
Be realistic in how much time you can – and should – spend on your job search. Even the most qualified candidates could send out dozens and dozens of resumes before landing the perfect position.

Dedicate a certain amount of time (at least a couple hours) every day to finding a new position and stick with this routine just like an exercise regimen. Think of your job search as a marathon, not a sprint. Keep track of your progress and the positions you’ve applied for each day. Staying organized like this is just one of the five things you can do to take charge of your job search.

Goal: Enlist Back-Up
Estimated Time: 2 hours
You don’t want to go at this alone. Spread the news that you’re searching for a new position to friends and family through individual phone calls or emails. Be sure to explain what type of work you’re interested in and what kind of skills you can offer.  If any connection offers a lead, be sure to make note of it follow up with them in a week or two.

Your network is the most important job search tool you have. Expand it by registering with a staffing service like ABR Employment Services. Make sure the company is a good fit for you by asking these important questions candidates should ask a staffing service. With a staffing service by your side, there’s an extra set of eyes looking out for you plus an array of new companies and positions that you may have not have found on your own.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of the series, How to Survive a Job Search.

Finding a Match: How Job Searching is Like Dating

Some people spend their whole lives searching for that perfect match – and I’m not talking about a significant other. I’m talking about a job. After all, you may be spending the better part of your week dealing with it. Whether you’re looking for a long-term career or a short-term gig, you should know the answers to these questions:

Big Brand or Small Business?

Working for a well-known company looks great on your resume and gives you some bragging rights. Each environment has its own pros and cons. Would you rather get more hands-on experience and the chance to work more closely with your managers?

Full Flexibility or Strict Schedule?

If coming in “around” 9 AM sounds like your kind of language, you may want to avoid a strict 8 AM to 5 PM workday. However, some people need the discipline of a schedule or they’d never get their work done. How well do you manage your own time?

Team Player or Lone Star?

While some love the camaraderie and teamwork that comes with working in a group, others would prefer to tackle a task completely solo. Think back to school projects or sports teams – when did you do your best work?

In the Shadow or In the Spotlight?

Putting on a smile, representing your company, and keeping up conversation are just a few responsibilities of a customer-facing role. Cowering in fear just thinking about it? You might be better of in a behind-the-scenes position without the added stress.

Still unsure what your ideal match is? Consider checking out the free tests in the career library at ABR JobConnect. These assessments are written in plain language and don’t take long to take.

It’s “the most wonderful time of the year,” but that doesn’t mean your job search should be wrapped away like a gift and left unopened for a few weeks. Follow these tips this holiday and you’ll be thankful that you’re a step ahead of the rest come the new year.

1. Lazy Days Off
December and January bring more than a few days where offices – and your personal job search – will shut down for food, family, and fun. Remedy those lost hours by jumping right back into your search the next morning. You should be all rested and relaxed after all! Finding a new opportunity is a full-time job and you should be as dedicated as any employee.

2. The Hustle and Bustle
If your to-do list is as long as Santa’s, random afternoons can easily turn into list-making sessions, gift-wrapping bonanzas, or envelope-licking sprees. Create a strict weekly schedule that includes plenty of room for holiday errands and your job search. Dedicate at least a couple hours per day first thing in the morning to search for a new opportunity. Set a goal to apply to “X” amount of jobs per week.

3. Everyone Else
It’s the season of giving which means you’ll be spending a lot of time shopping for others or preparing your home for guests. But it’s important to remember yourself this holiday. What are your needs? Don’t feel guilty about buying cookies (instead of baking them), stocking up on gift cards for presents, or sending less personalized holiday cards if it means you can dedicate a few more hours to your job search this week.

Need a tool to help manage your job search? Check out ABR  JobConnect. Register online today.

“Tell me a little bit about yourself.”

When an interviewer asks you about yourself, he or she doesn’t necessarily want to know where you were born, what your hobbies are or a laundry list of your job skills.  In reality this is an extremely important question.  Interviewers ask it for a number of reasons:

• To get a sense of what you feel is most important about yourself;
• To see how well you’ve prepared for the interview; or
• To find out why you think you’re the best candidate for the job.

There is a lot riding on your response to this question, so make sure you knock it out of the park.  Here are a few quick tips for answering the “tell me about yourself” interview question the right way:

• Be brief.  Keep the answer short – no more than two to three minutes.
• Practice, practice, practice.  Write your answer out, then rehearse it until it’s second nature. 
• Cite examples.  When you develop your answer, include one or two examples that best demonstrate why you’re well-qualified for the available postition.

 Take advantage of your time in the driver’s seat by selling yourself, creating a great first impression and setting a positive tone for the rest of the interview.

Still not sure how to answer this all important question?  Then participating in the December 1 (2 pm) ”Don’t Interview — Audition” is a must do. To register, login to ABR JobConnect and click on the WEBINAR Tab. Then click on the Event and register by clicking the Webinar registration link for each event listed.

You did it! You made it through the interview, your references checked out and you got hired. You’ve made it through the hardest part, right? Well, maybe.

The first few days on a new job are always tough. You don’t know anyone and you might feel a little overwhelmed. Fortunately there are a few easy steps you can take to ease your stress:

1. Just say hi: Every time you shake a new coworker’s hand, you’re not only making a new friend – you’re making a connection. Explain that you are new to the job and ask  if they have any advice to share.

2. Write it down: You won’t learn everything on your first day so keep a running list of questions.  If you’re unsure about something, ask your on-site supervisor.

3. Take the time: It’s one of the easiest ways to make a good impression, yet it’s so easy to overlook. Show up on time, take only the allotted lunch break, and don’t sneak out the door three minutes early – every minute matters!

There’s only one chance to make a first impression. So make it a good one. For more tips on what to do on your job assignment, please see page four of the ABR Handbook. If you have misplaced your handbook, please contact any ABR branch for a copy.

For those seeking employment, a job fair is the Holy Grail. Where else can you get face-to-face time with a potential employer? You get one chance to bring the black-and-white letters of your name to life — and hopefully land yourself a job. Take full advantage of those precious moments by wowing everyone with your image, your experience, and your enthusiasm.

Here’s how to prepare for the big fair:

Dress the Part

Never be afraid of overdressing at a job fair. Employers will know you’re serious about your job search if you wear dress pants and a nice shirt. Keep jewelry, hair, and shoes classic and simple.

Memorize Your Experiences

Whether you’re handing over a resume or filling out an application, you must be able to communicate your previous experiences verbally and on paper. Take the time to highlight details of your past positions that apply to this specific opportunity.

Be Over-Prepared

The application process will move much more smoothly – and quickly – if you bring along the appropriate materials. Think references (names, your relationship to your reference, address and telephone numbers), a license, a resume, or a cover letter. Call the company in advance if you’re not sure what to bring.

Pay Attention to Details

Never underestimate a firm handshake, eye contact, and a smile. Ask intelligent questions about the position or mention a recent industry news article. Before saying goodbye, don’t forget to “close the deal” by restating your interest in the position.

What other job fair tricks have you used to land a new job? Share your tips below!

Flexibility.  Extra income.  Work experience.  An avenue to direct employment.  The reasons people choose temporary work are as diverse as the assignments they select.

But whether you are looking to earn some extra cash, or are seeking full-time employment, here are several things you can do to make the most of temporary assignments:

1. Dress the part.  You will fit in, perform, and feel better if you’re dressed appropriately for the type of work you’re doing.
2. Act as if the job is permanent.  Give your best effort on each assignment – you never know where it might lead.  If an employer is impressed with your performance, he can work with your staffing service to offer you direct employment.
3. Learn all you can.  Each assignment provides fresh opportunities to learn.  From practical job skills to industry-specific knowledge, capitalize on every chance to gain valuable skills and experience.
4. Test the waters.  If your career path is uncertain, temporary work affords you the ability to try out different jobs, at different companies, in varied industries.  Find out where you fit by accepting diverse assignments.
5. Network.  A temporary assignment puts you in a unique networking position.  While at work, you have the opportunity to interact and develop relationships with business colleagues whom you might not otherwise meet.  Leverage this “inside track” access by sharing your career interests and goals with managers you encounter on the job.
6. Communicate.  If you enjoyed an assignment and would like to work for the employer again once it’s over, say so.  Your staffing consultant and supervisor can look for additional opportunities for you to work in a different area of the company.  And if the assignment was not right for you, consider why.  Try to understand why the job or the employer didn’t meet your needs, so you can choose an assignment that’s a better fit the next time.

We want to help you get the most from your experiences as an ABR Employment Services temporary employee.  Please visit our website to learn more about the services, support, and resources we provide. If you live in the Wisconsin Rapids area or in the La Crosse area, be sure to attend our upcoming job fairs:

Wisconsin Rapids
Central Wisconsin Job Fair
September 21st, 2011
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Mid-State Technical College
500 32nd Street North
E Building-Gymnasium
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495
Questions? Email stevenspoint@abrjobs.com

La Crosse
LHI/ABR Job Fair
September 22st, 2011
11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Cargill Room – Riverside Center South
332 Front Street South
La Crosse, Wisconsin
Questions? Call 608.784.0760 or see ABR’s Facebook page for more detal