Why You Need to Focus More on Employee Onboarding

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Onboarding plays a large part in how long your new hire decides to stay with your company. Because onboarding provides a first impression of your business, you need to quickly connect with your new employee in a way that engages them and shows how you can help their career progression.

Here are four reasons why you need to focus more on employee onboarding.

  1. Recruitment

Effective onboarding begins during the recruitment process. In the Careers section of your website, you should provide information about your workplace and company culture. When a candidate comes in for an interview, they’ll already know a lot about your organization. You’ll be more likely to attract candidates who blend with company culture, align with business goals and become productive employees. Also, when sending a formal offer letter, you should include an employee handbook and the required legal forms that need signing. Your new hire should have all the paperwork completed before their first day and be acquainted with your company’s employment expectations and policies, which will ease the transition to a new job.

  1. Job Transition

Onboarding helps a new hire ease into their job. For example, send an email to all employees asking them to welcome your new hire. Also, have IT set up the new hire’s computer, software and email account. In addition, present basic information in an easily understood manner, such as where the copy machine and restrooms are, so the new hire can focus more on their job. The more comfortable and familiar the new hire feels in their workplace from the start, the more likely they are to blend with your organization and contribute to operations.

  1. Employee Performance

Onboarding has a significant impact on an employee’s performance. The faster a new hire feels welcome and prepared for their job, the faster they’ll begin contributing to the company. Therefore, HR needs to educate a new hire on their role within the organization, the company’s values and culture, and legal and policy-related issues. HR also needs to quickly connect the new hire with co-workers to begin forming personal and professional relationships. The sooner a new hire learns about the company’s history, values, employees and goals and shares their own personal stories, the more connected and welcomed the new hire feels. They want to focus on learning and growth so they add value to the organization.

  1. Career Growth

Proper onboarding shows a new hire how they can progress within the company. Onboarding should explain what’s expected of the new hire and what they need to do to be promoted. When a new hire sees a structured way to move up within an organization, they have a clear path to success. The new hire will be more open to continuous training, coaching and feedback to be eligible for promotions and help move the company forward.

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What You Need to Know When Hiring a Manager

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Hiring a manager takes a lot of time and money. To maximize your ROI, you need to know which qualities to look for when finding the best candidate. Here are seven qualities you should look for when hiring a manager.

  1. Focus

Focusing on company goals is imperative. Because a manager has competing priorities at any given time, they need to determine in which order tasks get completed so that everything is finished on time. A manager also needs to ensure the work being done fits with company goals and helps the business remain competitive. In addition, a manager needs to be creative when solving complex problems to move the company forward.

  1. Communication Skills

Strong written and verbal communication skills are necessary. A manager needs to know what needs to be done and be able to clearly communicate those priorities to each team member. A manager also needs to assign tasks to each teammate and provide the resources needed to complete the work. In addition, a manager needs to consistently follow up on team members’ progress and ensure everyone is working toward the same goal.

  1. Problem-Solving Ability

Being able to regularly solve tough problems is required. For example, a manager needs to break down an issue to thoroughly understand it, come up with ideas to solve the problem and determine the most effective solution. Also, a manager needs to be confident in their choices to gain their team members’ support in implementing the decision. In addition, a manager needs to convince their teammates to move forward – whether or not they agree with the manager.

  1. Responsibility

Taking responsibility for team members’ actions is essential. Because a manager is in charge, they must be held accountable for their team’s successes and failures. Therefore, a manager needs to stay aware of their teammates’ actions and ensure they remain engaged in their work.

  1. Team Member Appreciation

Expressing team member appreciation is important. When teammates are appreciated, they feel greater job satisfaction and increased morale. As a result, team members regularly show up for work, stay productive and remain loyal to the company longer. Therefore, ensure a manager privately and publicly acknowledges teammates’ contributions and successes, provides additional PTO and allows bonuses and raises to express employee appreciation.

  1. Honesty

Honesty instills employee confidence in a manager. Employees follow a manager when the manager is trustworthy and follows through on things. Look for a manager who values openness and transparency, leads by example, and encourages co-workers to follow suit.

  1. Empathy

Possessing empathy is vital. For example, a manager needs to ensure teammates don’t have too much work piled on them, as they’ll become less productive and may search for jobs elsewhere. Also, when team members experience issues in their personal lives, the manager should allow a degree of flexibility, such as taking off a few hours, as long as their work gets completed on time.

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Take Advantage of LinkedIn When Looking for a Job

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Use LinkedIn as one of your search methods when finding your next job. You’ll be able to research which companies are hiring, who works there, what the culture is like and other factors that influence where you want to work. Here are five ways you can take advantage of LinkedIn when looking for a job.

  1. Update Your Profile

Ensure your profile is both complete and updated. Because your LinkedIn profile is like a resume, keep your skills and experience current to show the value you can provide for an employer. Include an attractive headline, detailed summary and links to your online portfolio or professional website. Provide a professional photo of yourself so that an employer can see whom they’re contacting for a job interview.

  1. Become a Thought Leader

Establish yourself as a thought leader in your field. For example, join LinkedIn Groups to provide input in discussions, and ask and answer questions. Also, connect with individuals you regularly interact with in Groups to further develop your relationship. In addition, post content and videos you create that are relevant to your industry.

  1. Learn About Employers

Use LinkedIn company profiles to learn more about employers. You can determine which of your connections work for the company, who recently was hired or promoted, which jobs are available, what the company statistics are like and who its competitors are. You can also follow companies to stay current on their achievements, which you can mention in a cover letter or interview, and discover job postings. In addition, you can learn about company culture and what employees have to say about working there. Furthermore, you can research your potential boss and executive team before participating in an interview.

  1. Make Connections

Connect with everyone you know on LinkedIn. The more connections you have, the greater your chances of getting help with your job search. For example, look for individuals you know who work for the company you’re interested in and may refer you to the hiring manager. Also, connect with individuals in your field with whom you want to establish a relationship. In addition, connect with alumni from your college to discuss your experiences and how you can help secure a new position.

  1. Use Job Search Options

Utilize LinkedIn’s job search options. For example, click on the “Jobs” tab to search for an opportunity by keyword, ZIP code and country. Use the “Advanced Search Option” to narrow your choices according to date posted, experience level, location, job function, company and industry. You can save your searches, request email notifications about new postings, and search for job openings on companies’ LinkedIn pages. Also, use Open Candidates to discretely show you’re looking for a job without your employer or co-workers finding out. Recruiters can see what types of jobs interest you and what the best way is to get in touch.

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Five Ways to Avoid Micromanaging

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Micromanaging does your team members more harm than good. Your team can’t work independently when you’re watching their every move. Micromanaging also decreases morale and makes teammates not want to come to work or be productive. Here are five ways to avoid micromanaging, and become a more important and well-liked leader in the process.

  1. Delegate

Train your team members to handle the tasks you delegate. Figure out what work you absolutely have to complete yourself and what work is less pressing. Then, determine the time and skills necessary to complete the work you’re delegating. Discuss with your team what your priorities are, including which tasks add the most value and require the most time and attention. Assign the work to appropriate team members. Let your team know which tasks they’ll need your guidance and approval on, how much detail they should include in their status updates, and how often you’d like to be kept in the loop about their progress.

  1. Build Trust

Cultivate trust with your teammates by letting them lead projects and make decisions. When you first start doing so, check in with your team early and often. When they reach your desired level of competence, pull back to show you believe in their abilities. Set regular times for your team to check in and let you know how the project is going. If you don’t get the desired outcomes, let your team figure out how to arrive at the results you want. If they need help, step in at a reasonable point.

  1. Encourage Independent Work

Let your teammates work independently. They can’t get much done if you’re constantly asking what they’ve completed and when they’ll have the rest finished. Provide clear guidance and a check-in schedule upfront, then let your team go to work. Allow them to make and manage their own mistakes as much as possible, so they build their problem-solving and leadership skills. As they complete their work, focus on organizational objectives that have a stronger impact on the bottom line.

  1. Provide Support When Needed

Ensure you provide your team members support when needed. Although you want them to work as independently as possible, they’ll need your guidance at various times. Make yourself available to help solve problems and provide additional resources without becoming deeply involved in a project. Also, if the project is high stakes, request more regular check-ins with your teammates to ensure the work is being properly completed.

  1. Gain Feedback

Ask your team for feedback on your management style. Find out how you can best help each member complete their work, which may include doing things differently than you prefer. Also, ask whether your overall goals are clear and each teammate has the support and resources needed to accomplish them. In addition, request your colleagues discreetly monitor how well your team is completing their work. For example, ask your colleagues how a project is going and whether your team appears to need help. Take action accordingly.

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Hiring Trends in 2018 You Need to Know About

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As we move into the new year, many changes are happening with companies’ hiring practices. In some cases, hiring managers won’t even see your resume. Here are five hiring trends in 2018 you need to know about.

  • Apprenticeships Are Popular

Because Germany has been using apprenticeship programs to build its highly skilled workforce, the United States will follow suit. U.S. vocational schools, universities and organizations will begin implementing apprenticeships for manufacturing, trade and other high-skilled jobs. Benefits of apprenticeships include lower recruitment costs, increased productivity and reduced turnover. Also, because apprenticeships customize training to meet industry standards and increase safety, they may reduce workers’ compensation costs. Given the fact that Germany has a low unemployment rate due to a reliable pipeline of qualified workers, having apprenticeships in the United States may help reduce unemployment here as well.

  • Artificial Intelligence Assists with Hiring

AI and machine learning quickly analyze large amounts of data to make hiring decisions and predictions. HR can better define a job posting’s perfect candidate, find qualified workers in search pools and more quickly fill job openings. Companies like Unilever are using AI when hiring entry-level employees to increase diversity and decrease costs. This practice replaces collecting resumes, sending company representatives to universities or conducting phone interviews with candidates. When a candidate passes the AI screening process, they participate in an in-person job interview.

  • HR Takes a Team Approach

The new work model involves changing job roles and job descriptions, rethinking careers and internal mobility, and emphasizing skills and learning to measure employee performance. The model is also changing how leaders lead and how businesses set goals and reward employees. In addition, there is a greater focus on culture and engagement, delivering on-demand learning and helping departments share information to collaborate better.

  • Companies Focus on Employee Value Propositions

Because businesses are competing for smaller numbers of qualified candidates, companies need to communicate their top selling points for workers to work for them. A strong EVP represents pay, benefits, training, career development opportunities and other aspects that make a business attractive to workers and sets it apart from the competition.

  • Businesses Create Great Candidate Experiences

When candidates participate in a personalized and engaging recruitment process, they feel more connected with the company and are more likely to want to work there. Because a great candidate experience maintains open communication throughout the recruiting process, the candidate understands where they are and are less likely to decide to work for a competitor.

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Qualities to Look for When Hiring a Financial Analyst

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Bringing aboard a financial analyst requires much time and attention. You want a qualified candidate who can perform comprehensive evaluations of businesses, budgets and projects while working well individually and collaboratively. Here are six qualities to look for when hiring a financial analyst.

  • Professional Attitude

Because financial analysts need to cultivate trust in their team members, company and clients, they need to behave professionally and show they can manage any circumstances that arise. Analysts need to dress according to company code, be punctual and show up with the necessary information and materials. Analysts also need to monitor their choice of words, tone of voice, and manner of addressing colleagues, supervisors and clients. Furthermore, analysts need to remain consistent, as reliability in finance is key.

  • Leadership

Financial analysts need to model self-motivation, ambition and passion for their work. Analysts also need to manage projects, promote teamwork and resolve conflicts. They need to increase efficiency and productivity when working individually or with team members or clients. Furthermore, analysts need to be confident in making decisions based on potential consequences and risks.

  • Communication

Because financial analysts share information with diverse audiences who may lack a background in finance, analysts need to explain detailed information that co-workers, upper management, the board of directors and clients understand. Also, analysts need to clearly communicate to build trust and rapport.

  • Technology

Financial analysts use current technology to manipulate substantial amounts of data to make educated decisions. Analysts use tools in spreadsheets and databases to combine disparate data, solve problems and deliver presentations to management. They also need to know which modes of data representation managers prefer, such as graphs or financial tables. Therefore, analysts need to have experience using your company’s tools and platforms or be easily trained.

  • Analytical Skills

Financial analysts have to think logically and evaluate a broad range of information from your company’s financial statements. Analysts need to accurately assess a situation, understand how it works and what it means, and create an intelligent response. Therefore, you want to ask how the candidate’s analytical skills impacted previous projects and deals.

  • Problem-Solving Skills

Financial analysts need to look at a problem from every angle to determine the best solution. For example, if an analyst needs to value investments their company wants to make, they have to conduct an analysis and calculate the risk to determine whether the company should make the investment. Pose a scenario requiring the candidate to assess risk and potential gain for the company. You’ll be able to determine how well the candidate thinks on their feet and makes wise choices under pressure.

 

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Why You Should Always Be Giving Employees Feedback

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Providing employee feedback is vital to improving work performance. Setting clear expectations and letting employees know whether they’re meeting them helps employees achieve company goals. Here are five reasons you should be giving employees feedback.

  • Improve Performance

When employees understand what objectives they’re trying to reach, which actions benefit the company and which have an adverse impact, they have a clearer idea of the best way to complete their work. When employees see how their efforts contribute to reaching company goals, they feel more invested in moving the organization forward.

  • Increase Motivation

Motivated employees perform better because they know they’re highly valued and respected members of your team. Also, because motivated employees know their contributions are appreciated, they’re more inclined to share their ideas for helping your company grow. Motivated employees remain more engaged in their tasks and loyal to your company longer.

  • Continue Professional Development

Providing employee feedback encourages ongoing professional development. When your employees continually invest their time in learning opportunities, they add to their skill sets and become even more valuable assets to your company. As your employees gain additional knowledge and experience through learning and feedback, they move up to increased leadership roles and further participate in strategic planning. Your employees continue developing and improving products, services, relationships and more so your company continues expanding. You gain a competitive advantage by remaining a leader in your industry.

  • Encourage Innovation

In order for your company to thrive, it needs to evolve according to customers’ wants and needs and the demands of the industry you’re in. Providing employee feedback includes sharing business goals and asking for input on achieving your objectives. Employees enjoy being creative when solving problems and bringing your company to new levels.

  • Decrease Costs

Because employees understand which behaviors are helping the company and which are hindering it, they can correct their course as needed to improve their output. This reduces the need to let employees go for being unproductive and lowers the amount of money spent on recruiting and training new employees.

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The Top Five Ways to Ace a Marketing Interview

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Interviewing for a marketing role can be stressful. However, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of making a positive impression and being extended a job offer. Here are five ways to ace a marketing interview.

  • Be Prepared

Research all you can about the company and the interviewers. Understand what the company does and what its mission, values and culture are.

Read the company’s social media pages, blog posts and news section of its website to learn about recent achievements, new campaigns or issues the company’s experiencing. Find out what the company’s target audience is, its role in the industry and products/services it produces. Uncover the company’s revenues, competitors and management structure. Visit LinkedIn to find out the interviewers’ roles in the organization and whether you have mutual connections or interests. Also, print several copies of your resume for the interviewers to refer to and references to call. In addition, prepare multiple samples of your writing or other work to demonstrate your quality and thoroughness. Be prepared to discuss two or three pieces that relate to the position you want.

  • Practice Answering Questions

Ask a family member or friend to ask you potential interview questions and provide constructive feedback. Typical interview questions involve your work style, strengths and weaknesses, and projects you’re proud of. For example, “What are your favorite marketing blogs and why?” “Tell me about a campaign you were involved in that didn’t go as well as expected. What do you think went wrong?” “How have you successfully incorporated online marketing tools into previous campaigns?”

Ensure you quantify your successes to demonstrate how you added value for past employers and can add value for your next employer.

  • Dress Appropriately

Men should wear a dark suit, such as black or navy, with a light-colored dress shirt, such as white or blue, and matching tie. Women should wear a dark suit coat with matching pants or skirt and a light-colored dress shirt. Wear matching socks or hosiery. Ensure your hair is styled, makeup is minimal and shoes are polished.

  • Ask Questions

Listen and respond to what the interviewer says, then follow up with your own question. Add in your opinions and thoughts as well. You’ll keep the interviewer engaged in the conversation and stand out from your competitors. Remember to pause after each question so you can think about the answer.

  • Send a Thank-You Email

Let each interviewer know you appreciate their time. Mention two or three topics you discussed that make you the best candidate for the role. Tell them you look forward to hearing from them soon.

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How to Reduce Stress in the Workplace

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When employees feel stressed, they typically miss more days of work, develop health concerns that increase insurance costs, and change employers with little or no notice. As an employer, it’s in your best interest to do all you can to keep your employees’ stress levels down. Here are seven ways to reduce stress in the workplace.

  • Communicate With Your Employees

Talk with your employees about factors that make their jobs stressful. You may be going through a busy season and need temporary staffing to alleviate the workload. A new employee may desire additional feedback on their work performance to ensure they’re producing at the expected level.

  • Clarify Expectations

Clearly define your employees’ roles, responsibilities, goals, and how they relate to the overall success of the company. Clarify your expectations for your employees’ completion of their work. Share company news so your employees gain insight into the future of the organization and their role within it.

  • Use Positive Reinforcement

Give verbal or written praise individually or publicly for completing work on time. In addition, offer employees rewards for achieving company goals.

  • Welcome Employee Input

Ensure your employees’ workload is manageable, they have the resources needed to complete their tasks and the deadlines are reasonable. Encourage your employees to provide their ideas for streamlining operations and moving the company forward.

  • Encourage Physical Activity

Encourage your employees to take frequent breaks. Suggest your employees stretch and take a walk inside or outside the building each day. In addition, offer discounted yoga classes, gym memberships, or other outlets for fitness.

  • Promote A Work-Life Balance

Be sure your employees are using all of their vacation days. If possible, allow your employees to work remotely one day a week. Don’t allow your employees to work at the office after work hours or on weekends or vacation days.

  • Lead by Example

Managers should remain positive at all times. Also, managers should eat healthy foods throughout the day. Managers should leave work at a reasonable hour to spend time with their family and friends or pursue other interests.

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Four Ways to Spot a Bad Candidate Who Has a Great Resume

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Although a candidate may submit a top-notch resume, there may be less substance than what appears to on paper. Therefore, pay close attention during the interview to determine whether a candidate is all they seem to be. Here are four ways to spot a bad candidate with a great resume.

  • Talking About Only Him-/Herself

When you ask about the candidate’s career goals, they don’t mention the name of a successful person they admire. When you ask the candidate about how their previous work experience led them to where they are now, they don’t mention receiving help from a colleague, boss, client, or anyone else.

  • Taking Credit for Everything Positive

The candidate may mention collaborating with team members, but they take all the credit for achieving desired outcomes. Also, the candidate most likely claims others’ ideas as their own and talks as though any success is the result of only the candidate’s hard work.

  • Not Discussing Weaknesses

The candidate lacks insight into or accountability for their actions. When you ask about a bad decision they made during their career, they don’t acknowledge any wrongdoing or admit their actions resulted in adverse outcomes. Also, they can’t explain how they learned from their mistakes because they won’t admit to making any. Because the candidate lacks self-awareness, they’ll continue making the same or bigger mistakes rather than learning from their experience and correcting their behavior.

  • Acting Unprofessionally

The candidate may be late for the interview and fail to notify or apologize to the hiring manager. They may know nothing about your company or what the position entails because they didn’t perform their research prior to the interview. In addition, the candidate may answer a question in an inappropriate manner, such as speaking negatively about a previous employer or fail to display polite, mature, composed actions before, during, or after the interview.

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