Things you should remember and know when you are looking for temporary employment agencies.

Whether online or offline, temporary employment agencies are everywhere. When you need a simple job just to get you through hard times temporarily, you can easily get those types of jobs in temporary employment agencies. Thanks them, there’s always a perfect job for you anytime and you can even select the work that you want to do. The entire temporary employment agencies job is just to connect you with the job that matches your preference and skills.

But you need to watch some of the companies. Here are things that you should remember when you’re signing up for work in temporary employment agencies.

Remember that you’re going to the temporary employment agencies because you need a job that will give you the money. And it should never be the other way around. Beware of those temporary employment agencies that will ask you for “application fees”. These agencies are already paid by companies whenever they find a qualified person for the job. The reputed and successful ones get their profit from employers and those that ask money from applicants just mean that they don’t have enough clients to support their operations.

Most of these companies that will be asking for money can be found online. While it can’t be said that temporary employment agencies online can’t be trusted, you don’t really know where they are and where they come from. If the company looks promising, check if they have all the contact information. The online site of Better Business Bureau is a good source for getting legitimate companies. If you’re really not sure about the online sites, you can also go to a local employment agency. If you’re not really looking for a temp job in other places, you’re better off in dealing locally.

At your end, these temporary employment agencies expect you to do your job and finish you contract with the company that you’re working for. Before you accept the job offer, read the conditions and if possible, check the company you’re dealing with online or ask someone who has been with the company about it. Once you accept the invitation, make sure you live up to the standards and don’t get fired. It’s going to leave a mark if you don’t finish you contract. Other companies interested in you will have second thoughts as they will see in your record that you have been fired for some reason. You should also finish the contract or leave formally to keep a clean record.

Being smart in selecting the better temporary employment agencies is really easy but it’s tempting to just get anything online. With awareness, you can easily get your dream job if you know where to find good temporary employment agencies.

When you know your employment categories, employment agencies will be there to help you in your search for a perfect job.

One of the things that you should consider before getting a job is the different employment categories. Employment agencies should know this since these are considered as the variety in their field of work. In this article, let’s take a look at different employment categories. Employment agencies throughout the internet more or less have the same categories. Read on and know the advantage of these categories for selecting the best job for you.

The most common employment category that you will find online is the location of work. There are thousands of jobs that you can find online but it will go down to your preferred location. Since this is one of the most important of the various employment categories, employment agencies online will ask you where you want to work.

The next thing that’s very important is the industry that you choose. There are people who don’t care where they work as long as they work in the field that they love. Among the employment categories, employment agencies also focuses on this factor since the employers doesn’t really care where the workers came from, but on how they will fare on the job. All the major websites will ask you about these things even before signing up to create your resume.

Aside from the location and industry employment categories, employment agencies also added other categories that will zero-in on the specific job as much as possible.

Length of work is also one of the known employment categories. Employment agencies will ask you if you prefer working part time or full time. They will also ask you if you want to work as a permanent employee of the company, working your way to the top through time and experience. Or you can just opt for a job that will last for a determined amount of time and gain experience through time.

When selecting a specific job, these are most likely the employment categories that you will consider. What’s different though is where you place your number one priority. Some will select the location of work as they need to be close to their family or another business they have to take care in their spare time. Others prefer the industry since they want to develop some knowledge of the industry, most of the time people want to choose this since they are targeting a specific company in a specific place.

Whatever your preference, it’s important that you’ll feel content with your job. If you’re not contented with what you have, you’ll just go on and on looking for another job. Therefore, plan where you want and what do you want in your career.

Skills refer to the things you do well. The key to finding the most appropriate jobs in the industry is recognizing your own skills and communicating the significance written and verbally to a probable employer.

Majority of the most viable skills are those that are used in a variety of work settings. What are these skills? Would matching your skills to find the right job be successful?

* Determine your skills. This would help you in becoming the lead candidate of landing the job. A skill does not necessarily mean it was adapted in a work environment. If this would be your first job hunt and you have no job experience to date, you still have a chance in the industry.

Majority of skills, including knowledge-based and transferable, could be absorbed and developed as a volunteer, a student, a homemaker, or in your other personal activities. The skills you have used for these activities can still be applied to your desired jobs.

Organizing and listing your personal skills could help you easily fill out job applications, provide useful information for job interviews, and prepare quality resumes.

First, you should categorize the skills by separating your interests and aptitudes from your work experience.

1) Aptitudes and interest.  These include all of your hobbies, activities you have been involved in the past, and all the things that interest you. By listing all of these down, you could examine the skills it takes to achieve each item.

Skills from aptitude and interest may be homemaking, playing basketball, fixing cars and many more. All of these items could determine if you are capable of working with a team, able to handle multiple tasks, have viable knowledge of human development, knowledge of electronics and ability to diagnose mechanical and numerical problems.  The list goes on, but make sure to consider the skills that would be beneficial for a working environment.

2) Work history. This includes volunteer, part-time, freelance, summer and full time jobs.  Once you have listed all your past employment, examine the skills you do work each work duty.

* Ask for help. As soon as you have your list ready, you could now go to job services that could help you acquire your desired job.  You could also search job yourself. However, always remember to match your skills and abilities in your list to the needed skills and abilities of various jobs.

In most cases, people who seek jobs are threatened with job titles. This should not be the case. As long as your skills and abilities could meet the requirements of the workload and job title, your possibility of acquiring your desired job increases.

Hunting for the perfect job for an individual requires time, effort and knowledge. 

For stress free job-hunting, every individual must first consider the following pointers before starting your job hunting process:

1. Know what type of job you would like to apply for.   Gate crashing job fairs that offer work not related to one’s degree or work preference would be a waste of time.

Consider your interests, preference of work location and job shifts (to be especially considered by professionals who have family members to take care of).  If all these fit the category of the job opening available, it would be best to proceed with the application process.

2. Prepare possible needed documents or career portfolio.  Have several copies of your resume, transcript of records and any certifications ready for immediate submission if needed.

3. Know where to look for job postings.  There are various forms that offer listing of jobs.   Below are some of these sites:

3.1 Internet. One of most widely used searching options is the Internet.  Aside from the fact that browsing the Internet for available jobs is less time consuming than personal appearances to inquire at the offices, this can also be the least expensive form of job hunting.

You would not need to buy newspapers to browse through the ads for vacancies nor spend gas money to go to the offices.

Not only local or national vacancies can be browsed through the net, international job openings could likewise be easily accessed by the user, thus, offering one a much wider perspective in choosing the right job.

3.2 Newspapers.  One of the most commonly used searching medium.  Local newspapers advertise jobs that are within an applicant’s commuting distance.  Available jobs are usually printed on a regular basis.

3.3 Career or Job Centers.  These usually offer jobs for ages 16-18 and rarely above 21 years of age.  Though fully loaded with vacancies, it caters mostly to the younger applicants.

Job listings are frequently updated; therefore regular visits would ensure the applicants of new job postings.

3.4 Periodicals or magazines.  Professionals are best advised to look for jobs on magazines since employers that would want to hire the same would advertise on such journals.

3.5 Offices.  Most offices have postings of job openings on their Vacancy Boards.  Applicants may directly go to the office to look for vacancies and then directly submit the resume or other pertinent documents to the respective division that receives such documents.

Skill emphasis during the interview is important to show the employer what makes you different from all the other job candidates. In this competitive world, companies search for the most qualified employees by weighing skills of the candidates and determining how they would benefit the company.

Majority of the top companies search for employees who stands out based from their expertise, ability to give new developments, and pleasing personalities that would enhance the organization.

Skills are grouped into three kinds – knowledge-based, transferable, and personal traits.

1) Knowledge-based skills are those learned from experiences. These may include educational attainment, additional training, seminars attended, and other practices that you have studied to enhance your expertise.

Knowledge-based skills include computer and communication skills, marketing or managerial knowledge, product development, and many more. These skills vary depending on the field of industry of each job candidate.

2) Transferable or portable skills are those you bring to a specific job. This is the reason why interviewers ask, “What could you offer the company?” Transferable skills are important because companies strive to look for quality employees that would improve the development of the workforce.

Portable skills include problem solving, team leader potential, organized, writing and communication skills, customer service oriented, time and project management, and good with numbers and budget. This kind of skills varies depending on the experience and versatility of each job candidate.

3) Personal traits determine who you are. In a job interview, one of the most common things an employer says is “Tell me something about yourself.” Your response is vital because it would set the tone for the rest of the interview.

Personal traits include good judgment, well organized, analytical, goal oriented, flexible, creative and many more. Try to sell yourself in as modest as possible within a limited time.

* Self-assessment. In order to provide an impressive presentation, examine your resume and list all the skills you have used for each past job experience. Make a comprehensive list of your skills and strengths including personal traits, knowledge-based and transferable skills. This would be the basis for your personal commercial.

* Once you have completed your script, you are now ready to face the interviewer. Remember that employers are interested in your accomplishments. Use words that are concise, direct and clear.

Although many companies require a unique set of skills, you should still highlight your technical skills in the interview. These skills, which top companies usually seek, include leadership, communication, confidence, flexibility, problem solving and energy.

Emphasizing all of your strengths and skills on job interviews would increase your chances of landing the desired job.

Prepare and practice for an interview.  After the date and venue has been set, allow time for enough preparation for the big day.  Remember that first impressions do last, so the way an applicant look really does matter.  Employers could easily give the verdict based on the manner of dressing during the initial interview. 

Better questions and service can be received if the appearance itself commands respect.  It is important to consider the surroundings of the company granting you an interview.  There is no reason to be over dressed or poorly dressed during this very significant day.  In fact, it is a good rule of thumb to always dress appropriately for any situation.  All to often appearance is glossed over.  Some might say that the inner characteristics of the person matter more, but in reality, you only have one opportunity for a first impression.  Make it count!

Although there are specific guidelines that can be followed, these does not apply to all states like New York for example, where people wear trendy up to extreme styles that are far away from the usual fashion rules common people know.  The rule of thumb should be to wear something that could boost more confidence.
 
Below are the top ten do’s and don’ts during an interview:

Ø Avoid wild colored nail polish before the interview.  The same goes with long nails that could easily turn off some conservative employers.  These should be neat and very tidy looking.

Ø Never wear jewelry that rattles and jiggles as you speak and move.  Try not to wear two or more rings or earrings.  Piercing aside from the ears is also a no.

Ø Professional hairdo also counts
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Ø If you are a woman, wear closed shoes.  Heels are very appropriate as this gives more confidence to an individual and sense of respect is also provided once they see the person wearing them.

Ø  Again, for the ladies, never bare those newly shaven legs.  If possible, use stockings regardless of the temperature.  But make sure not to use fancy colored ones.  Only use those made for neutral looking legs.  These should also match the shoes.

Ø Remember that a good suit or dress brings more confidence as well.  This will also allow more comfort and chance for the applicant to answer comfortably or with ease.

Ø Avoid short skirts for women.  Wearing pants or leggings are a no, no during interviews.

Ø Wear the appropriate blazers just as long as they do not look fashion outdated.  Do not use any leather coats or jackets.

Ø For men, the tie is still appropriate.  Avoid using turtlenecks.  If there is no suit and tie available, use a collared shirt or white long sleeves.

Ø Men must not use too much aftershave.

Ø Women should be using bags that are not too bright and conspicuous.  These should be conservative and matching the dress.

Ø Any briefcase used must be in perfect condition.

The way a person looks equal the message he is trying to convey.  During the interview, this can either become a plus factor for the applicant or big loss.  Know for a fact that the way an applicant should look must be appealing, fashionable but not loud.

Consider the latest trends in the area or location where the prospective job is located.  One aspect that is a part of how employer picks a new hire is based on the physical attributes of the applicant.  From the way the hands were shaken, keeping an eye contact, the way the posture was maintained, the smile was delivered up to the manner of dressing is being rated already.

Regardless of your personal career background, skills, and underlying talents, if the first impression was never striking enough to make an outstanding appeal to the interviewers, nothing else counts.  This can be the potential employers’ initial interpretation of how an applicant will do on the job. 

Whether that perception is “fair” is irrelevant.  Do you want the job?  Look the part and your chances for success are much greater!

Career advisers tell jobseekers to send a thank you note after an interview.  To address the most frequently asked questions on how and what to send in a thank you note, here are some give aways.

Won’t the employer think that an applicant is desperate and a sissy applicant if he sends a thank-you letter?

Of course not.  Rarely does an employer not pleased to receive a thank-you letter.  It is considered as a common way of showing politeness, a gesture of courtesy, one way to outshine the rest of the interviewees, and a way to keep your name upfront.

Will it not jeopardize the possibility of getting the job?

Not in most cases, but it could in some point of time.  So why take the chance? (so they ask)  The answer: Most bosses wavers between the last two most promising applicants, a student and experienced officer for example, after the final interview for a certain position.  But when the boss gets a thank-you letter from the student, it made all the difference.  Because of that simple well mannered gesture, the student lands on the job.

Can it be handwritten or should it be typewritten?

Actually, it does not matter.  What’s important is the thought of doing it.  It must be tailored to your prospective company and the officer who made the interview.  Thus, respect is further established.  However, if the company, interviewer or the position being applied calls for a formal business letter, then do so.  Mostly, a handwritten note is okay if the interviewer and the applicant have built rapport. 

Will it be okay to e-mail the thank you note?

First thoughts indicate that this is a big NO.  However, it depends on the company’s culture.  If the people in the company use e-mail in all of their communication and correspondence, then it should be acceptable.  This will also apply if the company is into fast decision making when hiring applicants.  Always remember that even if e-mails fit in with the culture of the company, it’s still a better idea to follow up the email with a hard copy of your thank you.

So you can just save yourself from trouble since “anything goes” right?

NO.  On the other side of the previous story, there are prospective applicants who were almost on the verge of being hired but suddenly hit the skids after sending in a sloppy, ill-fixed thank you letters, with many typographical errors and misspelled words.  A part of having a good communication skill is being able to write effectively and companies do not need employees who have to be taught simple writing skills.

Will a borrowed thank-you letter do?

Yes, borrowing is one thing.  But make sure to look at the basic structure of the letter.  Never plagiarize the whole letter as it may be applicable to the one person but not for the other.  Surely, there are employers who can distinguish a thank-you note that has been copied or not.

If it was a panel interview should thank you letters be sent to all interviewers?

Frankly, that’s the best.  The same letter to each is as essential as making one for each.  All you have to do is edit some phrases for individuality in case the interviewers would bump in to each other and compare the notes they received.

How soon should a thank-you note be sent?

The golden rule is to send thank you notes within 24 hours after the interview.

Will it still be okay to mail the thank you note if the hiring decision will be made sooner than when the mailed thank you note is received?

Come to think of it, if the mail is too pre-historic for the hiring decision makers, then find a much speedy way: it can be via e-mail, fax, express delivery or personal delivery.  In fact, if you have hand delivered the thank you note, it can leave a great impression.

What if there’s already an offer before even sending the thank you notes?

It’s still better to send the thank you notes as this can be used to accept or decline the offer.  This could also be a confirmation of your agreement and/or understanding of the offer they have given (salary, benefits, other compensation, starting date, vacations, etc.), this way any discrepancies can be straightened out before even starting for the job.

Always find a way to make it as personalized as possible.  Try to think out of the box, you may even adapt what you have observed the interviewer has in the office during the interview.  Sending an article that you think the interviewer could be interested in is also another suggestion.

Whatever method you use, make it fast and professional.

Money is the most sensitive issue in the whole hiring process. Discussing the compensation often causes anxiety on both employee and employer. Here are seven ways to make the process of salary negotiating efficient.

1) Research:  Before the interview process begins, contact the professional organization that represents your field of career. As soon as they provide you with your salary information, you can now examine your monthly cash requirements. Remember that once your taxes are added to your paycheck, approximately 30% of your gross monthly salary is deducted.

2) Determine your skills: You should understand that different segments of the economy require a variety of skills depending on the industry setting. Once you have established what your skills are and what they are worth to the current employment market, you would know the limitations of your negotiation.

Salary range information is available at American Almanac of Jobs and Salaries, National Association of College and Employers, Career Center, and professionals in your related field.

In stating your salary range, avoid basing your desired salary on your current salary. Always tell the truth when it comes to your past salary. It is acceptable to extend a range to approximately $6,000 to show that you are within the company’s price range but interested in more compensation.

3) Weigh the company’s compensation package: To determine your fair market value for a specific job, you should consider the economic, geographic, and industry factors of the job offer. Weigh the benefits of compensation and promotions, insurance, allowed time off and retirement settlements of the offer to ensure a fair proposed salary.

4) Sell yourself: If you know what you could offer the company requires a larger income, never say it directly.  Once you sell yourself discreetly, the interviewer would understand that the proposed salary is not appropriate for your background.

5) Have a positive attitude: In negotiating, never compete. Negotiation is basically a process which could benefit both parties. Understand your needs and those of the company.

6) The final offer: Be aware when the negotiation is done. Pushing further when a deal has been set could give a negative first impression on your part.

7) Show what you are made of: The interview is only the first step in having an enhanced compensation. Once you are hired, offer your skills to the company and prove your worth by doing quality work. You may even get a promotion for doing so.

Based from a survey conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management, four out of five employees are willing to negotiate compensation. Understanding these basic tips will allow you to enhance the terms of your new job.

When one goes for an interview, the potential employer has no idea of who the applicant is. In some cases, the person applied to the ad while others used a headhunter or job site on the internet and matched their credentials for the position.

The first impression employers always look at is one’s resume. Given the many that apply, this usually takes about 30 seconds and so with the limited words, one must be sure that the resume is well written and grammatically correct.

The resume must say almost everything about the person. This should always start with pertinent information such as the person’s name, age, address, contact number and social security number.  The details here are needed so if one is considered to be a potential employer, it will be easy for the company to get in touch with the applicant and be scheduled for an interview.

Next is the career objective which is the reason why the applicant wants to apply for the position. By putting a strong goal in mind and not a general one, the employer will see that this person has a direction which is why that person wants to work for the company.

The next section should include the relevant skills and knowledge one has had in the current and previous jobs as well as highlighting one’s major accomplishments. By putting in detail the things one has done in that position and experiences learned from it, that information is already basis for the employer to see the potential the applicant has for that position. It shows the qualities one possesses and the benefits one can contribute to the further growth of the company.

After that, the resume should show one’s educational background.  Some companies prefer someone with a degree in a certain field, a licensed professional to do the job or one who possesses a master’s degree.  By showing one’s credentials, it is a good indicator of the type of training one has possessed in school and the accomplishments one has achieved in the course of one’s career.

The latter section should provide details such as hobbies, interests and character references.  Employers look at potential applicants who not only have the qualifications for the job but also those who also those who are well rounded. Being active in a certain organization and be seen as a leader in a group shows one’s social skills with others. Character references do the same and give people an idea how one performed working with that person.

There is no ideal resume. It depends on the job. It is an important step one must pass before being called for that first interview.