Everybody just wants to be happy. When it comes to a career, however, there can be a lot of compromise. It’s impossible to define what makes one person happy in their job vs. another person who has a similar job but hates it. Very often, people are mismatched to the jobs they end up in, which causes them to feel unfulfilled and wanting something better.

As a job seeker, you may have already considered that the job offer you may get in the near future may not be a perfect fit for your skill set and interests. However, in this economy you cannot afford to reject any job offer. It’s at least a job, right?

The question remains for you to decide – should you take a job you don’t wholeheartedly want, or should you hold out for a job that will make you “happy? Here are some things to consider.

The Not-so-Perfect Job Offer

If you’ve just been offered a new job, but it’s not exactly what you were hoping for, it’s natural to be disappointed. You walked in to the job interview with your best foot forward, delivered an awesome resume and references, and answered the interview questions well. Then you get the call offering you something less than what you expected. Your first reaction could be to get irritated about it and refuse the job offer, but wait—it is for a company you’d really like to get on with. And you have been trying to get a decent job offer for months now. What to do?

Many career experts will tell you that sometimes taking a job that is not exactly what you want can lead you to a better opportunity within a short period of time. Taking a job, even an entry level assignment, can give you the chance to prove your worth to the company which makes it easier for you to slide into a better role. While the job may not be a great opportunity, it is an entry into the kind of corporate culture that you may thrive in, and you’ll have time to hone your skills.

The Double-edged Job Offer

Now, what about a job offer that comes in, but looks like it may be a stress inducing job with grueling work hours, poor compensation, and a demanding boss. Or a job offer may sound good, but in reality the company is sinking or has a negative reputation in your industry. This takes some pondering. You have to consider how this job may affect your lifestyle and especially your family. Is it worth the sacrifice of your time and skills? Or worse yet, your reputation? This may be a time when it’s better to walk away, in pursuit of something a little better.

Perhaps one of the best ways to “try on” careers, particularly if you are not sure what you want to do when you grow up, is to take contract assignments through a staffing agency, like The Suburban Group, that can place you with growing companies. You’ll be able to gain valuable insight from this experience and work with a recruiter who cares about your suitability for the assignment. This can lead to more happiness and a career that is better matched to the professional you are.

Finding a job in the current economy can be somewhat intimidating. It can make even sane, intelligent people make rookie mistakes. These are a few of the big “dumb” mistakes you definitely don’t want to make as you search for a job.

1)   Don’t make it all about you. Humans are self-motivated creatures. You have your eye on the prize and a nice long list of goals to keep your busy. More than anything else though, you’re uncomfortable asking for help. As a result you decide to bite the bullet and get right down to it. Then you firmly plant your foot in your mouth by using the “here’s what you can do for me!” approach instead of the “what’s going on in your world?” approach that works infinitely better as an ice breaker.

2)   Practice friendship first. The big thing about using friends for business connections is that it’s easy to overlook the fact that this is your friend—first and foremost. How would you want your friend to approach you if the tables were reversed?  Think long and hard about how you’d feel or react in various scenarios you play out in your mind. Try several different approaches and decide what works best for you. Above all else, you want to come across as genuine so that your friend doesn’t wind up feeling misused in the entire ordeal.

3)   Don’t ask people who know little, if anything, about your work, your field, or your work ethics for endorsements. You’re not only asking them to place their credibility on the line for you but you also run the risk of casting an unfavorable light upon yourself in the process. Most people don’t take recommending someone for a job, or even an interview, lightly. Recommendations should be offered willingly and not requested.

Once again, think of how you’d feel if someone you didn’t know all that well asked you to put your credibility with your company on the line in order to help that person get a job? It’s not the most comfortable situation to find yourself in, is it? It might even have you feeling a little used by someone who is supposed to be your friend.

Finally, remember that while your mind is planted firmly on your job search, it doesn’t mean that everyone else is walking around dreaming up ways to help you search for a job. You can drop subtle hints that any help is appreciated for your job search. People generally want to help. They simply want to volunteer that help rather than be pulled, poked, and/or prodded into giving it. Give this approach a try and see what kind of wonders it can work for you.

Let Suburban Group help you land a great new job in the Grafton, MA area!

What is the ultimate hiring goal of your business? It is usually to hire the right people to perform the task at hand. No matter what the industry or the job required, your business is on a mission, and to achieve its goals, it needs to have the right staff on hand to make it happen. Is that possible? If you want it to happen, as the employer, you really do need to be the dumbest person at the boardroom table.

How Missions Are Won

If you consider how the biggest and the best CEOs in the world have become successful, invariably it is not by just doing all of the work themselves. Those who succeed are those who are successful at hiring the right people to push them to the top. No one does it on their own, after all. If you want to achieve the mission goal, you need to hire the right people to get you to that place.

Why Being Dumb Matters

Imagine sitting around a boardroom table. Would you feel the most confident if you were the smartest person at the table or the dumbest one? If you want to succeed in the industry, then you need to be the person at the table with the least amount of information and skill. By surrounding yourself with the best of the best at their skill, you ensure you can move forward. A team filled with the best at their job will ensure you can move beyond and upward.

How to Find the Best People for the Job

To find those who are best suited for sitting at your table and working with you, measure anyone you hire by how well they can contribute to the team. Here are some things to keep in mind through the process.

• What is the role of the person who you are considering bringing onto the team?
• How will you measure his or her success at the role you want that person to fill?
• What attributes does the person you are hiring need to have in order to do the job properly?
• What attributes are critical to ensuring that the team member meshes well with the rest of the people sitting around the table?

If you want to hire a professional who will help you to succeed, hire someone who fits with your team but has skills and experience that pushes them further. Be the dumbest person at the table so that you can push your team to accomplish more. The right team member has the ability to gel with your team, but also take it further than what you can do on your own. Sure, you know your business incredibly well, but as an employer, you need to surround yourself with the very best professionals around.

Get in touch with The Suburban Group today for support with your staffing needs.

The quickest way to get the attention of potential employers is to turn the tables on them, to some degree. During the interview process, try asking a question that impresses them. Any applicant can impress an interviewer with their answers. It’s a rare talent to come up with a question that will catch the potential employer’s attention and give them pause – in a good way.

These are nine questions that have really stood out in the minds of interviewers in the past. While you don’t have to ask the precise questions, they may help you come up with questions of your own that are designed to impress while also gauging where you stand in the minds of those giving the interview.

1)   Can you give examples of the best and worst of your current company culture?

2)   Will I be expected to mentor or be mentored in my role with this company?

3)   What is your current system to help workers collaborate?

4)   Where are the areas where your existing team could use improvement?

5)   What is the one thing this company places the highest value on and how will my work propel those values further?

6)   What’s the most critical thing for me to accomplish within my first two months of employment?

7)   How will you judge my success? What do I need to do in order to meet and/or exceed expectations?

8)   Now that you know my qualifications for doing the job, what are your concerns about my success in the role?

9)   The job sounds like an excellent fit for my interests; do I sound like a good fit for the position?

As mentioned, it’s probably wise to avoid asking these exact questions. The odds are good that many employers have heard them before, in one form or another. The point is to ask a question that makes your interviewer think; that’s how you will make a lasting impression that is likely to get you hired.

But there are a few other things you want to do during the Q & A process of the job interview. This is your opportunity to shine without referring to your resume at every turn. Use questions to highlight the fact that you are qualified to do the job, confident of your ability to do the job, and committed to the company and the job if the company decides to hire you.

It’s these qualities that will really stand out about your questions. This is what will have potential employers paying much closer attention to you, your skills, and your talents. The best thing you can do during the interview process is make a favorable impression so that your name will be the one they remember long after the last interview has been performed.

The recent recession and the overhaul of the employment market as it current stands has created a scenario in which there are thousands of people looking for jobs who are older. Many people at the age of 50 or older are finding it more difficult than ever to find the types of jobs they want and need. The problems run deep but there are steps you can take to get the job you want and need even if you are old enough to be the HR recruiting manager’s parent.

Know the Facts

Age discrimination is illegal. Nevertheless, it happens. Older workers are likely to spend more time looking for a job, even though they have the experience necessary to get a job and run circles around any entry-level employee. There are some preconceived notions working against these individuals as well.

• They are not up to date in the industry.
• They do not have the latest technologies mastered
• They require higher salaries because of their experience.

To overcome this, you will need to push aside the anxiety and worry over applying and take steps to show the recruiter that you are a real find and benefit to the company. How can you do this effectively?

Countering the Age Bump

The following are a few simple things you can do to ensure that your age does not stop you from landing the position you want. The goal here is to show the prospective hiring manager or employer what you can offer.

• First, make a good first impression. Have positive energy. Ensure your cognitive abilities are present.
• Emphasize your ability to meet any technology requirement. This may include computer skills and even social media abilities. Be sure you indicate your ability to stay up to date in the industry, too.
• Be sure to show you are willing to be flexible with management. You are willing to work with someone younger than you. You are willing to develop new skills. These are all factors that can help you to show the company you have what it takes.

From this point, you need to invest more time in finding the right companies to work for and that means expanding your job search. To do this, focus on building your network. You’ll find that many times, you know more people than you thought who could help you to land the position you desire.

Another tip is to look for the small companies. Many times, a smaller company needs experienced professionals. There are 20 times as many smaller companies than there are larger ones. Further, most are less concerned about age and more concerned about experienced professionals stepping in to do a great job from the start.

The process of finding a job at the age of 50 or older may take longer. It may be one of significant “why” questions asked. It could even be a time when you become frustrated. However, you can find the job you want and do a great job overcoming any challenges you face by focusing on the right employers and giving them what they want and need.

Could you answer a question about the title of your autobiography? What about one about the five items you would take with you into the wilderness? Today’s interviewer is going to ask unique questions to get interesting answers for you. While you will have no problem memorizing your facts, about your employment history and your skills, answering these non-traditional interview questions can be a bit more challenging. The last thing you want to do, though, is to stumble over your answers.

How Can You Prepare for the Unexpected?

You have always been taught to be ready for the questions the interviewer is going to ask. However, these unexpected questions are going to throw you off for sure. It can be hard to prepare for such types of questions, but the following guidelines can offer some direction.

• Be honest. Answer in an honest way so that you do not find yourself stumbling over your answers. The question is often one to bring out the best in you. For example, the interviewer wants to see how you react to the unexpected. Answer it honestly and you will not go wrong.

• Don’t try to guess what the meaning is. In a question like this, about your autobiography, there is no right or wrong answer. The key is to answer the in a way that benefits you and does not try to trap, mislead or even impress the interviewer.

• Answer these non-traditional interview questions in a positive manner. Rather than discussing anything negative, be positive in your answer. Rather than answer a question with a “poor me” attitude, answer it in a very positive, uplifting way. That way, your interviewer gets to see your positive attitude come into play.

• Avoid answering the question with more questions. “What do you mean” does not help you to improve your chances of getting hired. Answer the question the best you can.

• Take it slow. Rather than rushing into an answer, take a few seconds to gather your thoughts. The only way for you to answer in an intelligent manner is to do so by thinking first.

What if you do not know what the answer is? It is quite possible that you simply will not know what to say. Be honest about this, too. You may answer the question above that you haven’t defined your long term goals yet. You can also mention that you are unsure of the answer to the question because you have not thought about it.

Most importantly, do not allow yourself to feel that you have failed the interview because of the questions asked. Even if you do not think you are giving a good answer, chances are good that other applicants struggled with it too. The best way to present yourself is in an open and honest manner. Do not try to hide anything and keep the eye contact you have with your interviewer, smile and be pleasant and positive. All of this will benefit you in the long term. You may not be able to answer all of those questions perfectly, but many times, there is no right or wrong answer anyway.

The rejection letter is correspondence notifying a candidate that they were not selected for a position, generally following the application or interview process. Sending this type of letter may not be pleasant for the employer or the applicant, but it is beneficial for both parties. However, there are some important considerations when writing candidate rejection letters.

Some employers may feel they do not have the time or resources to write rejection letters to each applicant. However, they should note that the applicant took the time an effort to apply. The rejection letter can help the applicant know they did not get the job so they can concentrate their job search with other employers.  It shows respect to the applicant and is good for the reputation of the organization. It also helps organize recruitment activities.

Rejection letters can be accomplished by mail or email. It is a professional business letter, so it should be written as such. The rejection letter should be typed and not handwritten. Letters do look more professional if they are signed by a representative. Company letterhead should be used.

Candidates should be addressed by name. Letters should be personalized and not look like they are generic documents or form letters, sent out in a mass mailing. The statement of rejection should be to the point in the beginning of the letter.

Candidates should be thanked for applying for the position. The position should be clarified in the letter. Emphasize that you appreciate their interest with the company. Include a statement that their qualifications and experience were carefully considered.

The reason for the rejection should be given in a straightforward manner. It is not necessary to be specific about the reason for each candidate. Statements such as “moving forward with other candidates whose background is a better fit” are sufficient.

Consider the best time to send a rejection letter based on your department needs. Some employers may send letters out when they decide to move on to another round of hiring. Others may decide to wait until a position is filled to mail out rejection letters.

Company policy on applications should be mentioned. Some employers keep resumes on file for a standard amount of time, like six months or a year. Some may also notify of future vacancies applicants qualify for. Mention this in a rejection letter. If there is no policy, keep it out of the letter.

Letters should be closed with well wishes to the applicant. Phrases like “good luck in future endeavors and job search activities” should be mentioned. Closings should be to the point and courteous.

Issuing rejection letters can be good business practice for employers. It gives closure to the company and the applicant. Professional letters establish a good status and can help with qualified applicants applying for future openings. Besides, it’s just plain courteous.

Want more tips for handling candidate interviews and writing rejection letters, and to find quality candidates? Please visit The Suburban Group today!

You applied for a better job within the same organization you currently work with, and now have to prepare for an interview? First of all, congratulations! Getting the interview is a positive step! Now take a deep breath and start preparing. It’s not uncommon for an internal interview to be more stressful than other types of interviews. After all, these people already know you, and putting your best foot forward is vital.

Prepare a Portfolio

You want to make yourself stand out from other candidates as much as you can. The best way to do this and cut through the competition is through self-promotion.  Your portfolio gives you an opportunity to brag about what you’ve done to help the company succeed. Include information on any policies that you helped implement, times you’ve increased sales revenue for the company, how you’ve improved customer satisfaction and your individual problem solving skills. If you remind your boss why you were hired to begin with, and show them how much of an asset you’ve been, you’ll be a mile ahead of the competition.

Research, Research, Research

It’s always a good idea to research any job you’re applying for. Don’t assume that just because you already hold a position with the company that you should skip this step. This is a vital mistake that many people make, which can put your career at risk. If you’re hoping to move to another department you want to research that entire department. Find out what their vital functions are, why they are necessary for success, and more importantly, what you can bring to that department. The more prepared you are with specific information about the new job the better you’ll look.

Dress the Part- For a Week

Most people already know the importance of dressing up for an interview. However, for an internal position you want to make sure you’re noticed in a good way prior to the interview as well. There’s an old trick in the business world that actually does work, and this tip plays on that. If you dress the part you’re putting yourself in the mindset you need to get that position. If your normal attire is jeans and a button down shirt, consider opting for slacks and a tie for at least a week leading up to the interview. This not only makes you more comfortable in this attire, it helps influence the decision makers before you even walk in the door. You’ll be seen as a true professional. Just don’t go overboard.

Review Company Policies and Mission Statements

It’s easy to work for a company and never learn the mission statement. If you really want to impress your boss you’ll find a way to throw the mission statement into the interview conversation. This will show them that you take the company and their mission seriously. Also be sure to review company policies. A lot of the interview process will be about how well you understand the company as it is. This also helps you spot any trick questions that may be thrown your way.

Choose References Wisely

If you are looking to make a lateral move and don’t want your direct supervisor to know, then you need to be creative with the references. Ask for references from those above your supervisor. Ask for references from others in the department you’re applying for that may have a good understanding of your work ethic. Just because it’s an internal interview doesn’t mean you can forget about references. You still need them for internal interviews.

Want more tips for preparing for that important interview…or looking for a great new job? Visit The Suburban Group’s candidate portal today for access to helpful resources!

Today’s recruiters are overwhelmed with candidate resumes from tens of thousands of job seekers out there on the market. Additionally, there are many more candidates vying for remote work opportunities, which make it difficult and costly to set up face-to-face interviews. To improve efficiency, many hiring managers are resorting to initial telephone screens to focus on the highest quality candidates. That means candidates must be able to adapt by being prepared for phone screens in order to stay in the hiring pile. Here’s helpful advice on how to prepare for the big call.

Schedule the phone screen. Instead of an impromptu telephone call with a recruiter, ask to be scheduled for a call at a time when you can give your 100% focus. Most hiring professionals will be happy to do this, unless they need to hire someone on the spot. Choose a spot that is noise-free and avoid any distractions during the time the call will take place. If you have children or noisy pets, get a babysitter and head for a quieter environment.

Ask for a full job description. One of the biggest mistakes that job seekers make is forgetting that the job advertisement is limited in what it explains about the actual job. Never assume you know everything about the expectations of this role. You may be way off target and answer the screening question incorrectly. Ask the recruiter to email you an actual job description so you can have a copy of it to refer to.

Do your research. One of the things that the recruiter is going to be listening for during the phone screen is how well you’ll fit into the corporate environment if offered a job. Use the time before the phone interview to research the company website and any reviews about the company, including information about the industry. When you are on the phone with the interviewer, knowing some facts about the company will help you outshine other candidates.

Communicate well. When in a phone interview, you wont have the advantage of eye contact or other forms of body language to make a good impression. Therefore, you will need to convey intelligence and friendliness through your speech alone. Practice a little pre-interview talking by recording your voice on your computer. Listen for “um’s” “ahhs”, and other annoying sounds – then work on eliminating these from your speech patterns before your call.

Relax and breath. You want to sound confident so be sure to take cleansing breaths and sit up straight during the phone interview to sound better. If you get too anxious, take a moment to sip a glass of water and just remember to breath. Your brain needs oxygen to think correctly, so pay attention if you start to hold your breath during the interview. You’ll sound great and the person on the other end will have a good impression of you.

Want more interview preparation tips like these? Visit our website at The Suburban Group today and feel free to browse through our blog for more job seeker resources.