3 ways to keep your relationship strong when you have young kids

3 ways to keep your relationship strong when you have young kids3 ways to keep your relationship strong when you have young kidsIts true that the love you feel for your child is incomparable, but thechallenges kids pose to a marriageare well-documented, too. Studies, in fact, show ahappiness penaltyorhappiness gapfor parents versus non-parents, especially in the U.S.Follow Ladders on FlipboardFollow Ladders magazines on Flipboard covering Happiness, Productivity, Job Satisfaction, Neuroscience, and morePart of thestress and anxiety around parenthoodstems from a lack of infrastructure in the U.S. - we have skimpy governmental resources to support our families, including limited parental leave and expensive childcare costs, which exacerbates our everyday trials and tribulations. The financial burden, conflicting parenting styles, minimal time to spend as a couple, and endless chores can all conspire to strain your relationship.While the stress is real, especially when young childrens needs are impossibly large, there are ways to embrace the madness as a team and come out stronger. Heres howJoin forces during a meltdownThe tantrum is the worst assault a small human can inflict on us - worse than dirty diapers or spit-up, which have quick and easy fixes. If there are witnesses beyond you and your partner, its even more stressful. (Other peoples eyes on you and your screaming child feels like an automatic judgment on your parenting skills.)Its counterintuitive, but dont fight back. Stay steady and keep a calm, firm voice as your child continues to spiral into momentary madness. If you let it escalate by feeding into the drama, it will increase stress levels all around. A child will only be as calm as their parents, Julia Yeary, a clinical social worker atZero to Three, a nonprofit focused on the development of babies and toddlers, tells Thrive. If you cannot regulate your own emotions, your child is not going to be able to regulate theirs, she emphasizes.If your p artner is on the cusp of losing it, Yeary encourages us to give them an out, such as a walk around the block. If they come back and the kid is still mid-meltdown, you should take a walk around the block. Develop a tag-out system or code word/hand signal that you can use, that immediately signals your need to cool off, Beth Goss, a certified Gottman educator and training specialist for theBringing Baby Home programat the Gottman Institute, suggests.Giving each other breaks through the epic cryfest will help preserve your energy (for each other) and make you feel supported, which will help fortify your bond.Create small rituals of connectionFor many couples, the hour or two right before bedtime is the only quality one-on-one time they get in a day. If it gets disrupted by a childs inability to sleep alone in his or her own bed - a very common and exasperating problem - it can quickly begin to feel like a gulf is growing between the two of you. But small gestures of gratitude and lov e shared throughout the day go a long way.Find ways to be intimate in everyday moments, Goss says, urging us to create rituals of connection, such as a goodbye kiss each morning, holding hands when sitting next to one another, or rubbing one anothers back. Regularly express gratitude for all your spouse does for you and your family, Yeary suggests, whether via text or even an old-fashioned love note, and take a bit off their plate when you can. Do small things often for each other, like doing the laundry if its not usually your chore, Goss recommends. These things add up to a positive perspective on the relationship and act as a buffer when things get tough.Have adult conversation even while your kid is presentLook at me isthetoddler command that beats like a loud drum throughout the day. Because everything is new to them, kids require an inordinate amount of recognition and feedback to gain the confidence they need to navigate the world successfully and independently, but sometimes it can be overwhelming. You need to be able to exist as a unit, even when your kids in tow.A toddler or preschooler can often feel jealous when parents try to bestattungs minutes together and will purposely interrupt or act out to get their attention back, Goss says, emphasizing that the fix is all in the parenting. Teach them how to ask for your attention in a non-whiny or disruptive way, such as gently putting their hand on your arm, Goss recommends, and how to respect the conversation you are having by waiting their turn.This article originally appeared on Thrive Global.You might also enjoyNew neuroscience reveals 4 rituals that will make you happyStrangers know your social class in the first seven words you say, study finds10 lessons from Benjamin Franklins daily schedule that will double your productivityThe worst mistakes you can make in an interview, according to 12 CEOs10 habits of mentally strong people

Seven Top Tips for Applying to the Senior Executive Service

Seven Top Tips for Applying to the Senior Executive ServiceSeven Top Tips for Applying to the Senior Executive ServiceSeven Top Tips for Applying to the Senior Executive ServiceIf youve got sterling management skills, deep professional experience, and the passion to serve yur country, you might consider applying for a position in the Senior Executive Service (SES). But this prestigious federal employment is hard to come by the SES made just 300 new hires for its workforce of 7,900 in 2013. Because the application process is demanding and competitive, it pays to prepare most of your application in advance, then just tweak those materials to meet the requirements of specific job announcements when they appear.So now is the time to prepare to apply for SES positions in 2016. Here are my Seven Top Tips for preparing the SES application, especially the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) that will tell the stories of your expertise and experience1. Plan Your Career PathReview the Leaders hip Journey Chart in the 2016 edition of The New SES Application. Compare your resume with the leadership competencies associated with the ECQs on the chart. If you see gaps, request work assignments to fill them or make a lateral job change.2. Understand the SES Selection ProcessKnow that you are writing your ECQ stories for three audiences human resources, a board from the agency where youre applying, and a board of current senior executives drawn from multiple agencies. The latter board focusses on executive skill, elend technical expertise. So your ECQs must focus on the leadership competencies specified on the Leadership Journey Chart.3. For Each Job, Identify and Prepare the Applications ComponentsRead each job announcement carefully and note its application requirements. Required documents can vary by agency.Format 1 Traditional SES Application The traditional SES application includes a four-to-six-page executive resume that includes bullets for all ECQ accomplishment storie s 10 pages of Executive Core Qualifications stories in the CCAR (Challenge, Context, Actions, Results) format and one or more Technical Qualification statements of one or two pages each, if the agency requires them.Format 2 Five-page Resume-based SES Application This application is a resume that boils down all of the ECQs, TQs and traditional resume components into five pages. This challenging format must include bullets that summarize the ECQs and TQs.Other formats Candidate Development Programs, Intelligence Community Senior Officer Core Qualification, Air Force SES, Senior Leader, and other special programs or organizations may have their own requirements for the SES application. Read the announcements carefully and follow instructions to the letter.4. Develop a Dozen Accomplishment StoriesPrepare a list of 10 stories for the ECQs and two for the TQs. ECQs are not duties but narratives of accomplishments presented as brief essays. Your stories should elevate your application abov e the competition, which is formidable. (For 30 openings in the 2014 Candidate Development Program, the Department of Homeland Security received 5,500 applications.)5. Draft ECQ and TQ Accomplishment Stories in the CCAR FormatSES applications require that accomplishment narratives use the Challenge, Context, Actions, Results format. Each of the 10 stories should be approximately one page composed of four paragraphs in the specified typographic format. Double-check that for each story youve included the challenge, context, actions and results many applicants forget to describe the actions or results. (See my blog post on CCAR.)6. Map Leadership Stories to ECQsAfter youve created your Top 10 list of stories and outlined each one in the CCAR format, its time to map the stories to the ECQ leadership competencies. If one of your stories talks about forming partnerships, you could map it to the leadership competency called Building Coalitions. If another story focuses on personnel supervi sion and conflict resolution, it might illustrate Leading People. Even if you write compelling stories in the CCAR format, should they do not map to the ECQ leadership competencies, they wont support your application in the review process.7. Finalize the Executive Resume, ECQs, and TQsHave you have identified the leadership competencies, written at least 10 stories in the CCAR format, and drafted your resume and career history? If so, youre ready to customize your application to meet the requirements of individual job announcements. Typically the ECQs need not be adapted for each job, though you might need to modify the page total, for example. You may also need to select one of the TQs youve written, or draft a new one.Proofread all application materials before you submit them. Print documents and proof them. Read them aloud. Have someone proofread your materials and ask if they understand everything. Revise any stories that are even a bit confusing. When I write ECQ packages for c lients, I tell them, As a lay reader, if I cant understand your stories, theyre not ready. We cant assume the reader will know anything about your background, areas of expertise, or the stories you are telling.If you begin now, you will be ready to apply for SES positions in 2016 with well-written, edited, and polished ECQs, TQs, and an executive resume. If you need additional assistance, check out our newly updated book (December 2015), The New SES Application, or visit our Services page for a quote. Diane can also deliver hands-on training in ECQ writing at your agency. Diane Hudson (Burns) is a multi-credentialed career coach, executive resume writer and editor, specializing in posturing federal and non-federal employees to enter the federal governments Senior Executive Service (SES). She is co-author of The New SES Application, the first book written about the five-page SES federal resume and the traditional 10-page ECQ format. Diane is an experienced trainer in Senior Executive Service, ECQ/TQ, KSA and federal resume writing topics for SES Candidate Development Program candidates. Agency instruction experience includes Commanders Leadership Development Program at the Naval Shipyard, Air Force Headquarters, U.S. Army Missile Command, FEMA, Defense Acquisition University (Fellows), EPA,PTO, and others. Diane is an instructor for military employment readiness specialists and retiring military as well as train-the-trainer at career industry conferences internationally on outplacement and career search topics.

Get Down to Business With Our Business Analyst Resume Template for Word

Get Down to Business With Our Business Analyst Resume Template for positivGet Down to Business With Our Business Analyst Resume Template for WordIntroductionYour greatest talent as a professional business analyst is your ability to bridge business and IT projects, teams, and communications to achieve common goals. Yet when it comes down to your resume, do you know how to bridge your experience, skills, professional summary, and education into a strong resume? With our business analyst resume template for Word, youll have the process breakdown needed to transform your resume into an efficient machine that drives your career objectives.Business Analyst Resume Template for Word Ellen HernandezSt. Louis, MO 11111E ellenhbusinessmail T 555 Accomplished analyst with a unique blend of business and technical talents Able to skillfully interpret technical specifications in a business context Strong clientProfessional Business Analyst Certification Boston University2013Bachelor of Business A dministration Bryn Mawr College2010

How to make your resume stand out according to three recruiters

How to make your resume stand out according to three recruitersHow to make your resume stand out according to three recruitersI recently went to our Dublin office and had a chat with Cpl Irelands sourcing team, the Talent Innovation Hub (TIH). In addition to helping job applicants, the TIH also proactively reach out to passive candidates. Those who are bedrngnislage actively applying for jobs but are nonetheless likely to discuss a new opportunity.I asked Kenji, Adarsh, and Chloe (all working at TIH) what kind of information sourcing specialists look for in the candidates resumes. I hope this conversation will help many people out there to improve their resumes and increase their chances of getting hired for the right job.1. What do you like about your job at TIH?One of the great things about working at TIH is that we feel satisfied in providing very specific expertise and support to candidates who are looking for a career move. We know what our clients are looking for in a candidate s resume. We also talk to candidates to find out their strengths and achievements. We can bridge the two and facilitate a smooth hiring process.On the other hand, we also ask candidates some of the less comfortable questions What do you think is the weak point in your resume presentation? What can we do to address it? What do they think is their weakness?We also remind active job-landseekers that sometimes the problem is not in the candidates fit for the role, but rather in the way the candidate is presenting him or herself in the resume and during the interview.2. How many resumes do you go through on a daily basis?At least 50. If we are looking at verbunden profiles, we might go through as many as 400 per day.3. What are the two things candidates can do to improve their resume?Be more specific about your experience and skills. What hiring managers want to know is the unique impact you had in your past positions. For example, instead of writing I deal with customers, try giving nu mbers (what was your team size? how many customers? what were your targets? were they achieved or exceeded? etc. etc.) and try to describe the specific kind of conversations you had with the customers, including specific customer feedback.Avoiding cliches is another way to improve your resume. If we see a cliche, that is a huge turn off for us, because everybody else is writing the same thing Of course, every company wants a fast learner and a motivated worker. But dont write I am a motivated worker or I am a fast learner, because saying that doesnt prove anything. Instead, describe an example that shows you are a dedicated person or a quick learner.Related articlesPros and Cons of working in a startupHow to get hired as a designer job search resume adviceA real example of a resume without work experience that has impact4. What is an important piece of information that is missing in fruchtwein resumes that you receive?Wed say that candidates should be much more selfish in their res umes and write what exactly it is that they are looking for in their career. For example, if you are a fresh graduate looking for an entry-level position in civil engineering, be very specific and write something like I am a fresh graduate with a degree in so-and-so. I hope to obtain an entry-level position in civil engineering. I am open to industries but would prefer to stay in Galway. This kind of summary is very important, but unfortunately, this is something that 99.9% of resumes dont have. In their resumes candidates only talk about what they can offer but nothing about how their career is supposed to progress. And thats what makes a difference.Another thing thats important but missing is their Visa status. If we dont see your nationality and/or Visa status on your resume, we assume that you are not writing it because you do not have permission to work in Ireland or the EU. If this is your situation, hiding it does not benefit you in any way. Be straightforward, so that when w e give you a call you are spending your time discussing a role that you are actually eligible for. Even if you have permission to work in Ireland and you know it, you need to write it in your resume to let your employer know about it as well.5. What advice would you give to candidates with little experience?In addition to what weve already said, candidates should also mention projects theyve done, such as things they achieved at university/college. Sometimes, volunteering can look even better than working, but again, they need to explain what exactly they have done.One mistake we see from junior resumes is that they list a role that anybody could have done cleaner, waitress, etc. And then they try to make it look special. This shouldnt be all you can talk about. Instead, tell us about what youve achieved and what skills you acquired that a typical graduate will not have. Consider having a bigger education section or having a projects section. By all means, put your part-time job th ere so we know that you work hard, but dont waste space by elaborating on menial work.6. Can you think of a resume which really stood out?Yes, many There was this one online resume which looked like a Super Mario game. When looking through the candidates previous experience, you control the Mario and jump from one section to another by clicking a button. It was a resume made by a developer and it really proved his skills. He could make things interactive and had a great sense for UI.That is all great and creative, but when it comes to serious business, the most impressive applications are the ones where the candidate has a good understanding of what the role theyre applying for is.After all the excitement from a creative resume is over, this is what really matters and makes the difference. Were really impressed by someone who can stick to the point, be short, and still manage to include everything that is relevant to the job they are applying for.7. Whats the main difference between a Linkedin profile and a resume?A resume is more detailed, and it may contain information that you wouldnt want to make public, for example, your home address. Also, people can exaggerate themselves in a Linkedin profile more easily than in a resume.Also on Linkedin, candidates tend to mention a huge list of skills they have and languages they speak. But on their resumescandidates will be to mention how good they are in these skills and languages, where they used those skills, and really focus on what is relevant to the job they are applying for.Another difference is an endorsement. On Linkedin, people get endorsed by others. But nowadays people just give endorsements without even knowing how good you are. You never know how credible that is. We generally rely more on references than skill endorsement on an online profile.Finally, one thing about a LinkedIn profile is that candidates do not really think about the layout. You just need to fill in the details to make your own profile , which is very easy and accessible.8. Do you think that resumesare dying?Definitely not. We can see where people who say that are coming from, though. Think about it. Does a person who is a good software developer have a good resume? Or, is a person who cant write a good sentence in their resume a bad software developer? Not necessarily. This is where we should be a bit more critical. It means resumes do need a bit of transformation. However, I believe that people will always need a resume. Its a written proof of what the person has done.*note, this article was originally published in May of 2017To read next Check out our resume examples section that got people hired at their dream jobs.

6 Easy Ways to Improve Nonverbal Communication Skills

6 Easy Ways to Improve Nonverbal Communication Skills6 Easy Ways to Improve Nonverbal Communication Skills6 Easy Ways to Improve Nonverbal Communication SkillsYour nonverbal cues during an interview are just as important as your stellar resume. Make sure youre sending the right ones. TWEETAs a freelance writer and a Certified Professional Resume Writer, I am a stickler for using the appropriate words, placing commas in the correct places, and ensuring that written communication reads well. When I work on resumes for clients, I tend to take this detail-orientation to a new level. Will someone really notice that the left margin is 1.1 and the right margin is 1.2? Maybe or maybe not. However, I know it and want to ensure that it appears professional for the reader. After all, a successful resume is written with the audience or reader in-mind.Even if the resume is perfect, all of this work can be undone in a few seconds if the interviewee does not have excellent nonverbal communication s kills. Within the first seconds of meeting the job candidate, an interviewer will make a judgment on the interviewee. Much of this will be based on appearance of the candidate and how the person acts during the interview.Here are some easy-to-implement job interview tips I typically give clients when they are preparing for the job interview1. Shake hands firmlyAs a woman, I am particularly in-tune to this and want to ensure I dont have a dead-fish handshake. Show them you are confident with a nice, firm handshake.2. Make eye contactThis does not mean staring, but this does mean you are not looking at the ceiling or at the floor for the duration of the meeting. Look people in the eye and show them you are ready to talk business. And, if there is more than one person conducting the interview, be sure to look at each person.3. Sit up straight in your chairYour mom (and mine) welches right. Slouching gives a bad impression that you dont care about the person talking to you and it looks sloppy. Sitting up straight will also help you to listen more intently. Make sure your feet are planted firmly on the floor and the small of your back is against the chair.4. Appreciate the power of your appearanceThis doesnt mean you have to purchase a brand-new three-piece suit. It does mean you should dress in a nice outfit, ensure it is not wrinkly, and take your time getting ready.5. Pay attentionWhen the interviewer is speaking to you, nod your head at the appropriate times and take notes if you think you may forget something important. These communication cues show that you are interested in what he or she is saying.6. Be friendlyThis includes smiling when you meet people that work at the business. From greeting the receptionist upon your arrival to shaking hands with the interviewer(s) when you leave, your communication skills matter throughout the entire process.Several months ago I conducted a mock-interview with a soon-to-be college graduate. When I arrived at our meeting place, he was dressed in a suit, stood up to greet me, shook my hand, and had a portfolio in front of him. That was a client that understood the power of nonverbal communication.Before going on that interview, practice with someone and have them tell you the nonverbal signals you are sending. Or, if you are able to do so, videotape yourself and watch the recording. Emphasize what is going well and modify the behaviors and nonverbal communication cues that distract from your professionalism. You may be surprised at things you are doing and dont even know it. Taking the time to address it now will ensure you are giving the appropriate, professional, and proper nonverbal communication signals. For more, here are 5 ways to exude confidence during a job interview.Hire a TopResume writer to help you land more interviews, faster.Related Articles

Top Simple Resume Format in Word Choices

Top Simple Resume Format in Word Choices Most Noticeable Simple Resume Format in Word There are two primary trends in 2016. Its obvious choosing an excellent font would not just save a spot in you resume, but will also highlight the main info in your CV. Sometimes all you will need is a traditional style schablone thats clean, clear and right to the point. To assist you choose whats appropriate for you, lets look at the advantages and disadvantages of each resume format. There are more than merely a couple of pointers which you have to remember and fully adhere to when designing a resume even when youre utilizing a readymade vorlage. Most resume templates may be used to apply for several forms of jobs. A template may also help save you hours of design time in case you dont have well-developed design abilities. There are lots of free resume templates readily available online but sometimes it can be very challenging to pick the best one that is most suited to you. The Trie d and True Method for Simple Resume Format in Word in Step by Step Detail Before you commence writing your resume 2017, you should make certain that all the resume section youd like to include are formatted proper way and will be simple to read by a hiring manager. Whenever you are asking for work, its mandatory that you submit a resume. Easy and clean resume template make a remarkable first impression after all you just have one chance when applying for a certain job, so take advantage of it A Resume Template is a very important document that is employed in the case when an individual or an applicant is applying for employment, a volunteership, an internship, an educational course or another thing. What You Should Do to Find Out About Simple Resume Format in Word Before Youre Left Behind There are essentially four methods it is possible to organize your resume. Sometimes words arent the most efficient means to communicate. Word Resume templates are complete with the whole ou tline structure and the majority of the content which makes way for a powerful resume in an issue of just a couple minutes. Ok, I Think I Understand Simple Resume Format in Word, Now Tell Me About Simple Resume Format in Word Then you need to download some sample resumes and resume templates according to the aim of the resume. Rather than taking the chance of designing CV format yourself, it is preferable to download for sample CV collection. One of the very first things to think about is what sort of information you must work with in your cash flow template Excel spreadsheet. Its vital to use the right resume format to receive benefits. Facts, Fiction and Simple Resume Format in Word As previously mentioned, you need to pick a resume format thats suited to your personal profile. If youre thinking about submitting a non-traditional resume format, it is a fantastic idea to also incorporate a more customary format also. There are various sorts of chronological formats offere d and you ought to download freshers resume format templates to receive all the variations and pick the best. If youre developing a Word format resume, clearly Word is a great choice. You may always copy and paste text from a PDF if you are likely to fill in an on-line application and send your full resume in PDF file formatting later every time a hiring manager has invited you to achieve that. If your computer may read the text then youre all set. The template can be readily customized to your liking and includes all vital files for a htte nicht viel gefehlt set-up. Word Resume templates are simple to find or spot on the web and can be downloaded for more use. Your email address needs to be professional so that you can make the finest first impression. Sometimes, youve got to send a brief resume. Its simple to obtain a domain name (preferably your very first and last name) and establish a professional email address. Resume Templates also make certain that you dont miss out any practical object of information about yourself which can be important for the organization. So, theres just ONE and SIMPLE rule to steer clear of situation above. There are various types of CV possible based on the aim of its use and the expectation of the targeted audiences. With just a little preparation, you can decide on the right resume format for your requirements. Part of creating an effective resume is choose the best format to inform your private story. You should also think of the position, company and industry that youre pursuing. Further, it is a good idea to be aware of the culture of the organization youre courting. If youve gotten an education from an amazing educational organization then it may end up being a selling point for you. A targeted resume is utilized to focus your work search toward a particular career objective, performed in a particular industry, and for a particular firm. The Ultimate Simple Resume Format in Word Trick If it comes to CV, it must be professional. Together with mentioning the work type, if youll give a small description of your work in the cv then itll be best too. The Simple resume formats can be employed by anyone who wants to apply to get a job. For most job roles, you want a CV template thats clean and fuss free. The truth is that its tough to place someone into one definitive category. Resume formats make certain that your best achievements are right there on the top, prepared to be noticed. See the way the icons near section titles draw attention to the most important regions of the resume. In many other nations, a curriculum vitae is fundamentally the exact same thing as a resume. Handing in a resume for a work application for a PDF is advisable if you need your resume to appear just the manner in which youve made it. Its very crucial to comprehend the type of resumes preferred by the establishment that you need to work for. For more ideas on the best way to strengthen your program , have a look at our education and teaching resumes.

Job interview question and answer Describe a situation where you demonstrated negotiation skills

Job bewerbungsgesprch question and answer Describe a situation where you demonstrated negotiation skills Job interview question and answer Describe a situation where you demonstrated negotiation skillsPosted October 13, 2011, by Josie Chun The ability to negotiate is an art that is highly valued by many employers. Negotiation is about using your powers of persuasion, diplomacy and ability to come up with creative solutions and compromises to achieve, as far as possible, a winwin outcome or resolve a conflict. Think of a specific situation that required you to use your negotiation skills and describe the situation, how you approached it and what result you achieved. What you are hoping to demonstrate is an ability to be persuasive and assertive and get a positive result, while also being able to make compromises and maintain relationships. Effective negotiation requires you to be able to communicate effectively, listen, read your audience, and be flexible and diplomatic. Examples fr om your professional life could include the time you had to negotiate a new contract, deal with a difficult or demanding client or colleague, or close a tricky sale. You could also choose to use examples from your personal life, such as the time you had to mediate between two feuding friends, or negotiate a crucial issue with your partner or children. ResourcesMy first resumeCover letter for my first jobCareer Insider StoriesShelley Lask - Body Positive Health & FitnessInterested in becoming a?Human Resources OfficerGeneral ManagerBusiness ManagerAccountantOffice AdministratorPopular Career Searchesendorsed enrolled nurse interview questions and answersrecreational activities officer jobforensic psychologist interview questions and answerscover letter cleaning job no experienceaged care nurse interview questions and answers CoursesBachelor of Social WorkEnquire Online Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Health AdministrationEnquire Online Enquire OnlineBachelor of Criminal JusticeEnqui re Online Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Allied Health AssistanceEnquire Online Enquire OnlineJosie ChunRelated ArticlesBrowse moreCoworkersTroublesome Co-workers How To Deal With Difficult PeopleYou can choose your friends but you cant choose your colleagues. It is inevitable that you will come across the workmate from hell (WFH) at some stage in your working life.Career counsellorHigh schoolNavigating subject selection in year 10Year 10 students have some big decisions ahead of them. Julia highlights some of the main factors students need to consider when navigating the minefield of subject selection.Generations in the workforceJOB HUNTINGJob Hunting Tips For The Mature-Age WorkerIf you are over 45 and suddenly find yourself made redundant or seeking a career change, the thought of having to hit the job trail and compete against people years younger than yourself can be downright scary.

Study says people eat unhealthy foods in the office

Study says people eat unhealthy foods in the officeStudy says people eat unhealthy foods in the officeHeres a shocking study.According to a new report fromthe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,a lot of the food made available to you in theworkplace isnt very healthy. Wait a minute Donuts arent as good for you as broccoli? WHAT?The study looked at data fromU.S. Department of Agriculture survey, specifically looking at the purchases of over 5,000 employees from vending machines or cafeterias and free food available to them in the workplace and found that the average subject was getting 1,300 calories per week from workplace food and over 70% of it was free. Most of this food fell into the fats and added sugar categories as well as high sodium.Companies offer food over health insuranceWith mora and more companies offering not only free snacks (Bloomberg) but also full catered meals every day (Asana, Ancestry.com, Spotify), this isnt surprising news.According toJobvites 2016 Rec ruiter Nation survey, millennials reported they were more likely to get free snacks at work than to have medical/dental coverage or a 401K plan. Thats right. You are more likely to have access to a Smores Pop-Tart than health coverage at some companies.To our knowledge, this is the first national study to look at the food people get at work, Stephen Onufrak, an epidemiologist in the Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said in a statement.People may not even be realizing how many calories theyre getting, he told The Boston Globe.Mindless eatingPart of the herausforderung is because you are stressed or maybe even a little bored at work, eating is just something to do to pass the time.A studyconducted by Cornell University found that 40 secretaries who participated ate an average of 3.1 Hersheys kisses a day from an office candy bowl if the dish was opaque and covered. But when the candy was put within clear view in a transparent glass bowl, each secretary consumed an average of 2.5 more pieces a day. Slide that dish within reach of their desks, and the secretaries added another 2.1 candies to the daily intake, for a total of 7.7 pieces.Keep that in mind the next time you head to get an office snack.

How to Get the Most Out of a Job Fair

How to Get the Most Out of a Job FairHow to Get the Most Out of a Job FairImprove your job searching options and take some time to attend local job fairs. It may seem daunting- the crowds are big and theres competition for short attention spans, but its worth your effort. Youll have the opportunity to meet with employers that you might not be able to access any other way, plusjob fairs and career expos often offer networking programs, resume reviews, and workshops for job seekers. These tips will help you get ready to attend and maximize your opportunities while youre at a job fair. Dress for Success Attend the job fair dressed for business success in your best professionalinterview attire. Carry a portfolio, not a backpack. Your interview attire should err on the side of the conservativea neatly pressed, solid color suit, dark dress shoes, and minimal jewelry, accessorizing and makeup. Make sure that all tattoos are covered. Wear comfortable shoes, because youll be standing in l ine. Practice a Pitch You wont get much time with any one person, so you to make a good impression quickly. Practice aquick pitchthat summarizes your skills and experience so youre ready to promote your candidacy to prospective employers. A quick pitch is also called an elevator speech because it should only be 30 to 60 seconds long, which is about the same amount of time as a typical ride on an elevator. With your quick pitch, youll be able to enthusiastically explain who you are, what your skills are,and describe your career goals. So be ready- write up your pitch and rehearse it over and over. The more you practice this pitch beforehand, the more confident youll feel delivering it at the job fair. Bring Supplies Bring extra copies of your resume, a few pens, a notepad,and a bunch of business cardsthat include your name, your email address, and cell phone number. You might also want to consider bringingmini-resume cards as an efficient way to sum up your candidacy. Rese arch Companies Many job fairs and career expos have information on participating companies on the job fair website. Get yourself prepared to talk tohiring managersby checking out the companys website, mission, open positions, and general information before you go. If you demonstrate knowledge about each company or manager youre talking to, youll certainly stand out from the crowd. You may also be able to come up with a couple of questions to ask the hiring managers, which also makes a favorable impression. Arrive Early Keep in mind that lines can be long, so arrive early,before the fair officially opens. Youre better off standing in line outside so you can get in right away than arriving later and walking right in the doors but being stuck with long lines at each table. Attend a Workshop If the job fair has workshops or seminars, attend them. In addition to getting job search advice, youll have more opportunities to network. Be ready to chat up the people you meet and hand out your business cards. Network While youre waiting in line, talk to others and exchange business cards. You never know who might be able to help with your job search. Along the same lines, remember to stay polite and professional. Even if youre feeling discouraged in your job search, dont vent to other fair-goers about your situation or about any specific companies. Stay positive and make the most of the opportunity. Show schritte Shake hands andintroduce yourself to recruiterswhen you reach the table. Maintain direct eye contact. Demonstrate your interest in the company and their job opportunities. This is where your research in the companies will allow you to shine. Be Enthusiastic Employer surveys identify one of the most important personal attributes candidates can bring to a new position as enthusiasm. This means that employers want to see you smile. Even if youre nervous, stay enthusiastic- after all, great things may come from this job fair, especially if you ke ep a positive attitude. Ask Questions Have somequestions ready for the company representativesthat illustrate your knowledge of their organization. Employers are not merely looking for the most skilled candidate for the jobthey are looking for candidates who are truly interested in their company. The more you engage them, focusing the discourse upon their companys needs, the better the impression youll make. Collect Business Cards Collect business cardsso you have the contact information for the hiring managers you honigwein at the job fair. Then immediately after you get home, compile this information into a contact list and use it to send Connect requests on LinkedIn. Take Notes Its hard to keep track when youre meeting with multiple employers in a busy environment. Jot down notes on the back of the business cards you have collected or on your notepad, so you have a reminder of whom you spoke to about what. Say Thank You Take the time to send a brief follow-upthank -you noteor email to the company representatives you met at the job fair. This is another reason its crucial to get the hiring managers contact information. Sending a thank-you note is a good way to reiterate your interest in the company and to remind company representatives that youre a strong candidate.

Keep Engaging Top Employees As Economy Improves

Keep Engaging Top Employees As Economy ImprovesKeep Engaging Top Employees As Economy ImprovesKeep Engaging Top Employees As Economy Improves FennIts tough to put a positive spin on a recession, but for many small business owners, a punishing economy meant access to a talent pool that would have been completely out of reach in better times.As larger companies slashed head count, savvy smaller firms were able to scoop up top employees faster than you can say severance package. But as the economy improves, will these seasoned employees be tempted to seek out greener pastures?After all, small companies can rarely compete with big firms when it comes to compensation.The good news is that a fat paycheck alone is rarely a reliable zurckhalten incentive. As it turns out, many of the most effective retention strategies are not only accessible to entrepreneurial companies, but are also easier to implement in small firms than in large ones.Invest In Employee Development.Employees who signed on with you because they were unable to get a job at a large company are most likely to jump ship when big firms start hiring again. In those instances, management needs to be even more aware of employees professional goals, and provide them opportunities to develop and grow, says Tom Brown, director of CFO Services at Pacific Crest Group a human resources consulting firm in Larkspur, CA. This might consist of a special training class, access to a networking group, or travel to a conference or seminar. It also might entail entrusting the employee with greater responsibility, or accelerating the timing of promotional opportunities.The idea is to send the message that youre invested in your employees future and that youre willing to tailor your program to their specific needs.Be Flexible.Large companies, where productivity is measured largely by face time, are notoriously inflexible. Small companies have the ability to be flexible and to customize, says Michael kinders, CEO of aya Payro ll,which offers payroll and human resources services to small companies. You may find that some of the folks youve hired may want more flexible hours - like leaving at five to coach their kids soccer team, working four days a week, or working at home parte of the week.Remember that flexibility isnt accommodation it can be a highly effective productivity and retention if used correctly. Set guidelines, establish goals, get the right technology in place, and make it clear that a flexible schedule works only if the companys benchmarks are being met. Make sure you offer flexible work arrangements to all employees to avoid any appearance of favoritism.Create a Team Environment. People have more difficulty leaving their friends, so if you create a team environment, its harder for them to leave, suggests Lori Dernavich, who has her own leadership development consulting firm in the New York metro area.Young employees, particularly, are extremely team-orientedand are most productive when wo rking on projects in groups.But even if thats not how your company is structured, you should think about social events that foster team spirit. You can do more activity-oriented retreats, says Dernavich. Right now, philanthropic events are very popular, so you might see if you can get people at the company to help organize volunteering.And dont underestimate the value of having fun when employees from all departments of your company work and play together, they forge stronger bonds with one another and with your company.Align Incentives with Retention. Lots of companies are offering sabbaticals after a few years, says Michael Alter.What youre trying to do is lock someone in for the longer term.Allowing an employee to spend, say, a month trekking in Nepal may sound extravagant, but weigh it against recruiting and training a new employee and it looks like a bargain. Alter also suggests offering company trips, with spouses or significant others, after a few years of service. Its not ju st the reward thats important, he says. Youre creating an event memory that they wouldnt normally have, especially if you let them take their family. You might also consider smaller rewards that are tailored to employees interests, such as concert tickets or a night at the ballpark.Stick to Your Core Values.You cant expect employees to stand with you unless they know where you stand.A company should never change aspects of the core values because of economic times, says Michelle Roccia, a senior vice president at Winter Wyman, a staffing firm in Boston. For instance, if youve been committed to employee training and tough times force you to cut back on formal initiatives, you need to find creative alternatives. Start peer learning and mentorship programs, suggests Roccia, establish a brown bag, learn-at-lunch initiative taught by managers and in-house specialists, explore online opportunities, or band together with business partners to train each others staffs.Remember that the best retention program starts the minute a new employee walks in the door. Think of ways to tell them how their role fits into the big picture, and make sure they feel theyre part of the company, suggests Dernavich. Communication is huge part of retention people will leave if they feel they arent contributing.