Posts

How To Avoid Application Burnout

/in /by

When looking for a job, it is tempting to hop on Indeed, ZipRecruiter, or LinkedIn and just start sending your resume to every company possible. Especially if you are desperate for a job, it can’t hurt, right? Wrong. Although it may seem like an effective way to get your name out there, it ends with discouragement and not a lot of job offers. Here is how to avoid application burnout by sending out fewer applications and landing more jobs.

Why resume dumping doesn’t work

As much as we live in the digital age, people still like to see people, not just names on a screen. When the only effort you put into an application is clicking “quick apply,” that employer’s sole impression of you is your resume. It is easy for them to brush by you if you do not have the exact skills they are looking for. When no personal connection is made, the employer is given no reason to vouch for you. 

Check with your contacts 

Companies LOVE to hire people with who they already have a connection. If they already have an employee that can vouch that the candidate is a hard worker and a good person, the company is much more likely to hire them. Contact your friends, other alumni from your college or school, even your third cousin, twice removed. People are a lot more willing to help than you think, and often, they can benefit from you getting hired as well (hello, referral bonus)! This can also help you narrow your prospects, assisting you even further in avoiding application burnout.

Make things personal

If you do not have a personal connection with the company, you should still apply. Make a professional connection! Once you have applied, send an email to the hiring manager, give the company a call, or both. Making these connections helps show your personality to the company, not to mention that you care about the position enough to follow up.

Partner with a Recruiter

If you’re serious about advancing your career, a partnership with a Recruiter can be extremely advantageous. They have personal connections with dozens of companies and they have a pulse on who is hiring and what they’re looking for. Ready to get started? Contact us today!

**Bonus tip: Make sure your email account has a photo of you as the avatar. This way, the company can put a face to your name!

Make smart connections, use your resources, and don’t burn yourself out! Applying for jobs is a process. If done well, you can land a job you love!

The Questions You Should Ask At The End Of An Interview

/in /by

Asking good questions at the end of an interview not only shows that you were engaged and interested throughout your meeting but can also help you gather information to make your final decision when it comes to accepting an offer. In addition to the questions below, make sure to jot down questions that come to mind during the interview. That way, you can circle back to them at the end. Keep reading for three types of questions to ask your interviewer at the end of the interview:

Questions about the role

Ask more detailed questions about the position:

  • What would my day-to-day look like?
  • What would you expect from me during the first few days of work?
  • Who would I be working alongside?

Ask questions of benefits and compensation:

  • What is the average pay for this position?
  • What are the benefits like for the role?

Questions about company culture

Ask about positives:

  • What do people like most about working here?
  • What are coworker relationships like?

Don’t shy away from carefully worded questions about negatives:

  • What are some of the challenging parts of this role?
  • What do people struggle with most at this company?

Questions about their company experience

  • What do you like about working for this company?
  • How have you been challenged at this company?
  • How did you achieve the role you hold today?

. . .just to name a few! Good questions can provide you with resourceful information about your potential employer while helping you stand out amongst other candidates. Employers like to see candidates that read as real people with human questions, not just fluffy reputation-bolstering questions. Make sure you get answers to all the important questions floating around your head before the interview is over.

Wondering what comes next? Brush up on writing a post-interview thank-you note here!

Different Types of Recruiters & How They Can Help You Find a Job

/in /by

You probably know that a Recruiter can help you find a job. But what does that mean exactly? First, it’s important to understand that Recruiters work for companies, NOT for candidates. Thus, you should never have to pay for a Recruiter’s services. There are four major types of recruiters, and we’re breaking them down and giving a definition of each. So next time a recruiter contacts you or you’re looking for a job, you’ll know which partnership is right for you.

Corporate Recruiter

A Corporate Recruiter works internally at the company they recruit for. They typically have direct lines of communication with the Hiring Managers. A Corporate Recruiter’s job entails distributing and advertising jobs, sourcing candidates, screening resumes, and potentially conducting first-round interviews. In most companies, Corporate Recruiters coordinate the hiring process for the entire company. As a result, they have a lot on their plates. A Corporate Recruiter is not who you partner with if you’re hunting for a new position.

Retainer-Based Recruiter

A retainer-based Recruiter is a third-party partner hired by the company to recruit higher-level positions. They receive payment upfront to find candidates with specific, hard-to-find experience. Sometimes these searches can take months to find just the right fit. Also, a retainer-based Recruiter will come to you if you match the requirements they are looking for. You may not even be searching for a job and a recruiter working on a contain basis can reach out to you!

Contingency-Based Recruiter

A contingency-based Recruiter is what you typically run into at a staffing agency. They receive compensation for successful candidate placements. Additionally, a contingency-based Recruiter is usually competing against other firms. As a result, a contingency-based Recruiter is highly motivated to help you get the job. Thus, they are a useful advocate and tool for landing your next position. Contingency-based Recruiters typically have a large network of qualified candidates in their industries

Full-Cycle Recruiter

A full-cycle Recruiter can work on a retainer or contingency basis. The difference is that they work directly with the hiring manager in addition to the candidates they submit. Full-cycle Recruiters are the unicorns of the staffing world. Not only do they have a direct line of communication with the Hiring Manager, but also a deep understanding of the company, position, and the skillsets required. If you establish a relationship with a full-cycle Recruiter, they may even be able to champion you to your dream company.

At JSG, we employ all four types of recruiters. We know the ins and outs of our clients and the positions they are looking to fill. We have a thorough knowledge of the industries we work in and the companies we partner with. So, if you’re ready to take the next step in your career, partner with a JSG recruiter. Get started today!

Should You Apply To Multiple Jobs At The Same Company At Once?

/in /by

You’re browsing job boards, and you see that your dream company is hiring. Even better, they’re hiring for a position that matches your skillset! Wait, multiple positions that match your skill set! Could it be too good to be true? The answer is maybe. We’ll dive into both sides to help you decide if you should apply to multiple jobs at the same company at once.

Benefits of Applying To Multiple Jobs At Once

If you’re applying to a large company, applying for multiple jobs at once can be very beneficial. In some cases, if they are under different departments or silos within the company, candidates have received competing offers from the same company! Applying to multiple positions allows you to get more eyes on your resume and hopefully catch the attention of at least one hiring manager.

Detriments of Applying To Multiple Jobs At Once

On the other hand, applying to multiple jobs might not always be the best way to grab attention. Some hiring managers will get the impression that you are just applying to anything without real purpose or passion for the job. Even if you’re qualified, it can leave a bad taste in their mouth.

How You Should Decide

In most cases, there will be one position better suited to your experiences and qualifications than the others. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend focusing your efforts on that job. After all, you will need to customize your application materials to the job description. However, if there are genuinely multiple positions that you qualify for at a large company – go for it! Just be sure to clearly explain why each position would be a good fit and take the time to complete all of the application materials, from your resume to cover letter to additional messages.

Now, if you partner with a staffing firm like Johnson Service Group to find your next position, you don’t have to worry about application conundrums like this. We will assess you for each position and submit you to the ones that are the best match. Ready to get started? Contact us today!

What Is A Career Influencer And How Can They Help Me?

/in /by

You have probably heard of Social Media Influencers, a group of online personalities turning the entrepreneurial world on its head. But a recent trend that’s popping up more and more is that of Career Influencers. We’re going to dive into what a Career Influencer is and how they can help you.

What Is A Career Influencer?

A Career Influencer is a content creator that uses their social media following to help professionals navigate an uncertain working world. These professionals offer tons of free, bite-sized advice online. They have become especially popular with early-career and young professionals seeking guidance on kick-starting their careers. Jerry Lee, CoFounder and Chief Operating Officer of Wonsulting, notes that “It’s easier now to get reliable information about pay and working conditions at potential employers. The rise of career influencers makes the job hunt easier and more productive.”

How Can A Career Influencer Help Me?

One of the keys to finding success with a Career Influencer is finding the right one. There are hundreds of these professionals who all focus on different things. From general resume and interview tips to the challenges underrepresented groups face when finding work, there is an influencer that specializes in what you’re looking for.

You can start by absorbing those free tidbits of advice they offer on social media. Many have a significant presence on LinkedIn, which is a great place to start! Many Career Influencers offer extended services if you’re looking for additional support and guidance. So, once you find one that fits your career goals, reach out and spark a discussion about how they can help you take your career to the next level.

So, How Do I Find Career Influencers?

As I mentioned above, a great place to discover Career Influencers is LinkedIn. We love to follow along with #LinkedInTopVoices in the Job Search & Career sector. Additionally, you can browse LinkedIn Top Voices in various industries, allowing you to find someone who closely aligns with your career aspirations.

3 Essentials For Your 2022 Job Search

/in /by

With more jobs available than ever before, it’s a great time to take the next step in your career. But, the rules of the game haven’t changed. A job search still requires a lot of work, and being prepared ahead of time will put you one step closer to your next position. So, here are three essentials for your 2022 job search that you can get started on today!

Established career goals

It is projected that there will be a significant number of job opportunities in 2022. And with so many to choose from, you may feel like the world is your oyster. However, before you plaster your resume everywhere, you need to focus your job search. Make a list of priorities for your career. When it comes to your next step, what’s most important? Consider job duties, work-life balance, salary, benefits, management style, mission and values, and more. Then, only submit applications to positions and companies that align with your career vision and goals.

An Updated Resume

This may seem obvious, but you need to update your resume. Be sure to include any accomplishments you added in 2021, including certifications, online classes, or major projects. Don’t forget to include volunteer opportunities, skills added, and a link to your updated LinkedIn profile or portfolio.

Strong references

In today’s job market, employers are moving fast to hire candidates they like. That being said, you should have at least three strong references locked and loaded before you even start applying. Make sure these references are people you have worked with who can attest to your work ethic and dedication. Let them know you will be listing them as references and the types of positions you are applying for. If there are any key traits or projects you want them to attest to, let them know! The more prepared your references are, the better recommendation they can give.

2022 will be a great year to search for a new position. But, the ultimate success of your 2022 job search will be dependent on how prepared you are—looking for more job search advice? Explore our candidate resources here.

Set Your Job Search Up For Success In The New Year

/in /by

As you know, now is a great time to look for a new position. Great talent is in high demand, and employees have more bargaining power than ever. If one of your goals for 2022 is to land a new job, here’s how to set your job search up for success in the new year.

Refresh Your Resume

Wow, a lot has changed over the past year, hasn’t it? Maybe you got a promotion, or added new skills, or completed a big project. No matter what you accomplished in 2021, it deserves space on your resume. And in order to put your best foot forward in the new year, your resume needs to be up to date and reflective of your recent achievements. Remember to include measurable results and customize it as required when applying to specific jobs.

Ramp Up Your Online Presence

You would be surprised at the impact your online presence can have on your job search. One thing to consider in this candidate-driven job market is that employers are hiring fast. So, the quicker you can stand out, the better! Include a link to your updated LinkedIn profile on your resume and in your email signature. Share relevant industry content on the social media site so that when prospective employers visit your profile, they see that you’re actively engaged in the community. Feeling creative and want to take it a step further? Learn more about creating a personal website or portfolio here.

Partner With A Recruiter

No one knows the market better than a recruiter that specializes in your industry. Not only do we have direct connections to hiring managers, but we also have exclusive knowledge about unadvertised positions and excellent bargaining power when it comes to compensation. Contact a recruiter today to establish the relationship and get on the same page before you hit the ground running in the new year.

2022 is looking to be a great year for candidates. But, that doesn’t mean that a job search will be without challenges. Get ahead of the game and set your job search up for success in the new year starting now.

How To Decide If You Should Accept A Job Offer

/in /by

Congratulations, you received a job offer! Now, the power is in your hands. You must decide if you want to accept it. In some situations, it’s a no-brainer. Other times, it’s not exactly black and white. If you are in the midst of trying to decide if you should accept a job offer, follow these three steps.

Make A Pros/Cons List

This is the first recommendation we make to our candidates. If you are on the fence about a job offer, comparing multiple job offers, or just want to ensure you’re making the right decision, a pros and cons list is your best tool. Jot down everything, from the big things to even the littlest details. Is the salary better? That’s usually an obvious consideration. Does the prospective employer provide daily snacks? That sounds like a pro to me!

Talk To Your Family

Accepting a job offer is a huge life decision. In fact, it often affects your entire family! Whether it’s your parents, children, spouse, roommate (heck, even your dog – we don’t judge!), loop them in on your hiring process. Show them your pros and cons list and ask for their input. Cover all the ways it might change your lives. Discussing with family can really help put things into perspective.

Address Any Concerns Or Questions With The Hiring Manager

If it comes down to it and you just need one more thing (say, a slight bump in pay or an additional benefit), talk to the hiring manager! You will never get what you don’t ask for, and you don’t exactly know what the employer is willing to give. Let them know of your concerns and provide them with the opportunity to address them or overcome them.

Sometimes, we can forget that jobs are a two-way street. Yes, the employer is willing to pay you for your skills, but don’t let it slide that your needs should also be met. And don’t forget, you do have the opportunity to negotiate! 

How To Rebrand Yourself For A Career Transition

/in /by

If “The Great Resignation” has you considering a career change, you’re certainly not alone. But, it can be challenging to apply for jobs in a new industry or job function when your experiences and brand don’t align. Here are a few tricks you can use during your job search to rebrand yourself for a career transition.

Write a blog or two

Once you have become an expert in your new desired career, you need to show it off. Since your work history doesn’t allow that, you must create a platform for your newly acquired knowledge. LinkedIn is a great place to publish articles for free, and it gives you exposure on the job search site. It doesn’t have to be anything in-depth. Simply pick a topic you’re passionate about, and share your opinions and knowledge. This is a great way to highlight your expertise.

Create a fake project to show off your new skills

Are you itching to get your hands on a project related to your new career path? Don’t wait for a job to come along; create a project yourself! Whether it’s a faux marketing campaign, coding sample, or structural design, just get started. Treat it just like you would a project for work, but you’re in control of the content and deadlines. Again, choose something you’re passionate about and have fun with it! Since you are in the driver’s seat, you want it to reflect your absolute best and let your dedication to this new career shine through. Additionally, this will show how motivated you are to excel in this new role and the level of commitment you would bring should they hire you.

Create a personal website

Head to a user-friendly website builder like Squarespace or Wix to build your own personal website. This should include the classic job seeker materials such as your resume and portfolio, but you can also brand it specifically for your transition. Prominently feature new certifications you’ve acquired or classes you’ve taken. Craft a FAQ page that addresses gaps or lack of experience. Now, you can link to your new think pieces and self-driven projects to demonstrate your skills.

When you’re transitioning to a new career, you need to rebrand yourself. Try implementing these three tricks for rebranding yourself for a career transition, and you’ll be on your way to a new job in no time! If you’re considering a career switch to a STEM role, read more about that transition here.

5 Ways To Reduce Stress During Your Job Search

/in /by

So, you want a new job. Whether you’re currently unemployed, stuck in a position you hate, or are just itching for change, it can be stressful. An ever-growing to-do list, obligations to provide for your family, and societal pressure are all contributing factors to stress. However, you can combat these with a few stress-reducing strategies. Try implementing these five tactics to reduce stress during your job search.

Start With Killer Templates

The number one way to make a job search easier for yourself is to have great application templates. Think of your common job search materials: resume, cover letter, LinkedIn profile, personal website. You should customize your resume and cover letter for each job you apply to; however, a solid foundation will make all the difference. Focus on your core skill sets and experiences and err on the side of more detail. That way, you can whittle it down as you customize for each position, tossing anything irrelevant.

Treat Your Job Search Like A Job

If you are serious about landing a new job, treat the search as a full-time gig. Establish a morning routine, map out your day and tasks ahead of time, and always have a stopping point. Every day you can carve out time for different efforts. These could include customizing your application materials, contacting your references, virtual networking, browsing job boards, and brushing up on modern interview questions. But don’t forget, one of the most important parts of the job search is knowing when to take a break.

Make Time For The Things You Love

On that note, it’s essential to make time for the things you love. We know it’s easy to get caught in the throes of a job search, desperate to take that next step in your career. However, you need the chance to refuel your soul and destress. Take regular breaks throughout the day, step away from your laptop if you feel stuck, and get your body moving. After all, you never know where inspiration might be hiding!

Lean On Your Support System

You do not have to go through a job search alone! Let your loved ones support you throughout your journey. Whether that’s providing references, reviewing your resume, doing a practice interview, or even just lending an ear. Friends and family love being involved in your success, and you can feel less stressed by having a solid support system behind you.

Celebrate The Small Wins

This stress reducer is perhaps the most important. Any small win during your job search is worth celebrating! Did you submit an application? Win! You landed an interview? Win! Even something as simple as finding a company or job you’re excited about is celebration-worthy. When you allow yourself to get excited, it adds levity to your job search, which can often feel heavy.

We often put a lot of pressure on ourselves during a job search. But, it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. To further reduce stress during your job search and feel more prepared, explore our candidate resources!