As your business grows, you may need to consider hiring on more people to handle increasing workload. While interviewing prospective candidates appears to be a simple task, you may discover that the responsibility of filling a position is quite daunting. There are resumes to study, references to contact, and characters to survey. An initial hire at the end of the process could show promise, but what happens when you realize you’ve made an error in judgment?
Regardless of the size of your company, when you hire the services of a recruiting firm to oversee employment you acquire the professionalism and peace of mind your business needs to run smoothly. Staffing firms operated by experts in human resources have the ability to screen candidates for available positions, and will consult with you on the best decisions to make for your company.
Why take on the services of a hiring firm? The benefits definitely outweigh the doubts.
You’ll save time – The days you spend poring over resumes and cover letters are gone, leaving you to get back to daily concerns. Let a staffing company filter through job applicants while you work to build your business.
You’ll expedite the hiring process – Reputable staffing firms keep files of potential job candidates on file, so when you present a vacancy there’s a good chance they will have several qualified candidates ready to interview. Having access to a ready pool of workers allows for a timely hire so that empty office in your building doesn’t go to waste.
You’ll get the right person – For a staffing firm to succeed, they need to do their job right the first time around. When you call for a specific employee to fill a spot, you can be assured they will find the perfect match.
Contact your local employment firm today to learn more about hiring on services. Save time and money and let a professional do the work for you.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Virginia Beach staffing firms.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
The Job Interview Checklist: Are You Ready?
Whether you have recently graduated and are about to search for jobs in Virginia Beach, or whether you are a seasoned professional looking to start fresh, everybody goes into the job interview at the same level. You must be prepared to sell yourself to a potential employer and give the company some reason to put you on top of the candidate’s lists. Keeping your own checklist of to do’s before you interview is a good way to make this happen.
When you are called in to speak with a human resources manager about a possible position, it means the company has found something in your resume or portfolio they like. To keep their interest, you must be ready to answer all questions and show your expertise. Keeping to a suggested checklist of items as you interview helps to maintain your confidence and preparedness, and may lead to a second call or an offer. Every candidate should stick to this list before and as they walk into an office:
1) Dress Appropriately – Clean clothes, clean appearance, well-groomed hair and nails make all the difference when speaking to HR, or even the boss. Show them you are capable of putting a professional face on for the company.
2) Have Extra Resumes on Hand – You will be asked about past work, and if you have quite a history it’s possible to get flustered. Keep resumes on hand for personal reference, and to distribute if you meet multiple people.
3) Have a Reference List on Hand – Your resume may note “references available on request” and this interview may be that time. Have three or four names ready if asked.
4) Have Phone Numbers on Hand – Some companies may require you to fill out their official application during the interview, so it’s important to have all the necessary information at the ready. Phone numbers of previous jobs, dates, and names should be at hand.
5) Study up on the Company – Know the company before you meet them. Check their Web site or blog, know what they do and what they expect of your possible position there.
6) Ask Questions – Show an employer your enthusiasm by being proactive. Ask about the position and how it affects the company, and how outside-the-box thinking and practice can help.
7) Follow Up – A short note or e-mail to the HR manager informs them of your continued interest in the position. Keep it polite and brief, and include contact information so they may reply quickly.
These simple steps can make all the difference between a short note of rejection to a second call. Be alert, be professional, and be ready to get that job!
Kathryn Lively
When you are called in to speak with a human resources manager about a possible position, it means the company has found something in your resume or portfolio they like. To keep their interest, you must be ready to answer all questions and show your expertise. Keeping to a suggested checklist of items as you interview helps to maintain your confidence and preparedness, and may lead to a second call or an offer. Every candidate should stick to this list before and as they walk into an office:
1) Dress Appropriately – Clean clothes, clean appearance, well-groomed hair and nails make all the difference when speaking to HR, or even the boss. Show them you are capable of putting a professional face on for the company.
2) Have Extra Resumes on Hand – You will be asked about past work, and if you have quite a history it’s possible to get flustered. Keep resumes on hand for personal reference, and to distribute if you meet multiple people.
3) Have a Reference List on Hand – Your resume may note “references available on request” and this interview may be that time. Have three or four names ready if asked.
4) Have Phone Numbers on Hand – Some companies may require you to fill out their official application during the interview, so it’s important to have all the necessary information at the ready. Phone numbers of previous jobs, dates, and names should be at hand.
5) Study up on the Company – Know the company before you meet them. Check their Web site or blog, know what they do and what they expect of your possible position there.
6) Ask Questions – Show an employer your enthusiasm by being proactive. Ask about the position and how it affects the company, and how outside-the-box thinking and practice can help.
7) Follow Up – A short note or e-mail to the HR manager informs them of your continued interest in the position. Keep it polite and brief, and include contact information so they may reply quickly.
These simple steps can make all the difference between a short note of rejection to a second call. Be alert, be professional, and be ready to get that job!
Kathryn Lively
Monday, June 22, 2009
The Summer Job - Not Just for Teens
It appears to have become a tradition among young adults legally able to drive – school ends for another year, and instead of using the three months to vegetate it’s off to the summer job. How many of us have memories of spending June, July, and August behind the counter of a fast food restaurant or waiting tables at the local diner. Perhaps you were lucky enough to snag a temporary clerk position at the mall, or maybe you helped your parents at their offices to earn extra money. We look back now on these memories – sometimes fondly – and aren’t surprised to see so many help wanted crop up when school lets out, but these days the concept of the summer job isn’t necessarily limited to teenagers.
In times of economic stress, people in need of work may be inclined to apply for vacancies not wholly related to their expertise – if only to get the income needed to bridge the gap toward more permanent work. The idea of a “summer job” for adults may sound daunting for the job seeker, and it’s understandable. What person with a Master’s degree and years of experience in the corporate world wants to settle for forty hours a week as a barista? Consider, however, there are temporary jobs available that do require some skills and education, and won’t require a uniform.
Temporary Jobs Satisfy Temporary Needs
During summer, employees are apt to use their vacation time, leaving some companies to hire temporary work to assist in maintaining smooth workflow. Depending on the type of work available, signing on with a company as a temp is not only a good way to earn a paycheck as you search for full-time work, but it’s a good opportunity to establish a relationship with a possible contact. Should your job search extend longer than expected, a company may be more apt to hire on a temp who is already familiar with their policies and procedures, putting you foremost in their minds.
Seasonal Work is Remembered Year Round
It’s not uncommon for seasonal work to be labeled just that – limited work to cover a busy time for retailers or organizations. In the hospitality market especially you’ll see a surge for calls looking for people to work in hotels, amusement parks, and similar jobs in tourist-dependent communities. However, not all these jobs are designated to helping people park cars – so much goes on behind the scenes to keep the gears running. There may be extra work in clerical, accounting, and marketing departments that you can find. Though you may not be guaranteed work when the season ends, you stand a chance of a callback in the event of a vacancy should somebody leave later in the year. Never treat a temporary job as though your employer has a temporary memory. Impress for today, and it will last many tomorrows.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on jobs in Norfolk.
In times of economic stress, people in need of work may be inclined to apply for vacancies not wholly related to their expertise – if only to get the income needed to bridge the gap toward more permanent work. The idea of a “summer job” for adults may sound daunting for the job seeker, and it’s understandable. What person with a Master’s degree and years of experience in the corporate world wants to settle for forty hours a week as a barista? Consider, however, there are temporary jobs available that do require some skills and education, and won’t require a uniform.
Temporary Jobs Satisfy Temporary Needs
During summer, employees are apt to use their vacation time, leaving some companies to hire temporary work to assist in maintaining smooth workflow. Depending on the type of work available, signing on with a company as a temp is not only a good way to earn a paycheck as you search for full-time work, but it’s a good opportunity to establish a relationship with a possible contact. Should your job search extend longer than expected, a company may be more apt to hire on a temp who is already familiar with their policies and procedures, putting you foremost in their minds.
Seasonal Work is Remembered Year Round
It’s not uncommon for seasonal work to be labeled just that – limited work to cover a busy time for retailers or organizations. In the hospitality market especially you’ll see a surge for calls looking for people to work in hotels, amusement parks, and similar jobs in tourist-dependent communities. However, not all these jobs are designated to helping people park cars – so much goes on behind the scenes to keep the gears running. There may be extra work in clerical, accounting, and marketing departments that you can find. Though you may not be guaranteed work when the season ends, you stand a chance of a callback in the event of a vacancy should somebody leave later in the year. Never treat a temporary job as though your employer has a temporary memory. Impress for today, and it will last many tomorrows.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on jobs in Norfolk.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
The Waiting is the Hardest Part - Staying Positive in Between Interviews
It may appear to you, if you have been searching for a job for quite some time, that the wait between first interviews and a possible call back takes forever. In an economy where jobs aren't as plentiful as in the past, one may experience frustration when several resumes are sent out with little to no response. On the other hand, you could also have interviews scheduled throughout the week, only to see each end with, "We'll call you."
It could take weeks for that call to come, if at all. What do you do in the meantime?
Where there exists a market with few available positions, ultimately you'll find more candidates than openings. As a job hunter, you have the unenviable task of presenting yourself as the top choice, and you work hard to impress human resources managers and hiring staff. You dress well, come prepared to the interview with resume in hand and answer all the questions. You show a genuine interest and passion for the position, but now you must wait to see if they are interested in you. It's enough to discourage one from searching for work altogether.
Above all else, maintain a positive attitude as you wait. If you project a lengthy dry spell between interviews it may do good to relax and take the time to draw away from the anxiety. Think of a hobby or activity you enjoy - yoga, reading, cycling, etc. - and use some of your free time to absorb yourself in that. Who knows, you may decide to take a yoga class and meet a contact who leads you to another job interview. Referrals for work come from all sorts of places.
Considering volunteer work in the interim as well, even if only for a short time. Libraries, churches, and local social networks are usually in need of short-term help to assist with events and small tasks. Giving even a few hours a week can raise your spirits and boost your resume - larger companies with community involvement will be impressed to see you've done volunteer work.
Use this time, too, to sharpen your skills. If you are looking for Internet-related work, research new trends in your desired field. Experiment with new programs or sign up for one-day or weekend seminars to keep your mind sharp. If you are called back for a second interview, it will help to bring new information to the table so the employer knows you are ready to improve as an employee.
By staying busy and positive during lulls between interviews, you can strengthen your confidence, and connections and skills. Never let dead ends on job leads discourage you from finding the position you want.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Virginia Beach jobs.
It could take weeks for that call to come, if at all. What do you do in the meantime?
Where there exists a market with few available positions, ultimately you'll find more candidates than openings. As a job hunter, you have the unenviable task of presenting yourself as the top choice, and you work hard to impress human resources managers and hiring staff. You dress well, come prepared to the interview with resume in hand and answer all the questions. You show a genuine interest and passion for the position, but now you must wait to see if they are interested in you. It's enough to discourage one from searching for work altogether.
Above all else, maintain a positive attitude as you wait. If you project a lengthy dry spell between interviews it may do good to relax and take the time to draw away from the anxiety. Think of a hobby or activity you enjoy - yoga, reading, cycling, etc. - and use some of your free time to absorb yourself in that. Who knows, you may decide to take a yoga class and meet a contact who leads you to another job interview. Referrals for work come from all sorts of places.
Considering volunteer work in the interim as well, even if only for a short time. Libraries, churches, and local social networks are usually in need of short-term help to assist with events and small tasks. Giving even a few hours a week can raise your spirits and boost your resume - larger companies with community involvement will be impressed to see you've done volunteer work.
Use this time, too, to sharpen your skills. If you are looking for Internet-related work, research new trends in your desired field. Experiment with new programs or sign up for one-day or weekend seminars to keep your mind sharp. If you are called back for a second interview, it will help to bring new information to the table so the employer knows you are ready to improve as an employee.
By staying busy and positive during lulls between interviews, you can strengthen your confidence, and connections and skills. Never let dead ends on job leads discourage you from finding the position you want.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Virginia Beach jobs.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Real Estate Paralegal Position - Norfolk / Virginia Beach area
REAL ESTATE PARALEGAL - (Temp to hire)
| Ref: 51917 - Southside - pay commensurate with experience |
Well-established company is in need of an experienced Real Estate Paralegal to help with busy firm. Must have 2-3 years minimum experience and have extensive knowledge in preparing HUDs and packages. Must have demonstrated ability to produce within a fast-paced law firm or title company. Qualified candidate will have strong communication skills and be able to deliver world- class customer service. Driven team player needed for this immediate need. MS Word and Outlook skills needed and SoftPro would be ideal. Apply today!
Contact Don Richard Associates for more Norfolk jobs information.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Don Richard Beach Bash 2009 - Thursday June 11 4-8pm
Beach Bash
2009
Don Richard Associates will be an exhibitor at this years Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce 
Beach Bash on June 11th.
Beach Bash is a FREE event!!!
Enjoy exciting exhibits and contests, food samples and a cash bar while dancing and singing along with tunes by "The Janitors".
Stop by our exhibit to meet your DRA Team and pick up a complimentary drink ticket and free DRA giveaways, while they last.
Enter to win 1 of our prize drawings.
We hope to see you there!!!
Thursday, June 11th 4-8 PM
Neptune's Park
31st St and Oceanfront
Virginia Beach 23451
Beach Bash on June 11th.Beach Bash is a FREE event!!!
Enjoy exciting exhibits and contests, food samples and a cash bar while dancing and singing along with tunes by "The Janitors".
Stop by our exhibit to meet your DRA Team and pick up a complimentary drink ticket and free DRA giveaways, while they last.
Enter to win 1 of our prize drawings.
We hope to see you there!!!
Thursday, June 11th 4-8 PM Neptune's Park
31st St and Oceanfront
Virginia Beach 23451
June Issue of EmploymentEdge for Hampton Roads Live
EmploymentEdge is Don Richard Associates' monthly publication which is sent to all active candidates. Along with the informative articles on how to better prepare for the job market, you will find descriptions of Hampton Roads job opportunities and recent career placements.
Read the current issue of EmploymentEdge (June 2009) for great job leads and interview tips and community events and news! Don't forget to browse archived issues for other pertinent information on job hunting in Hampton Roads.
Read the current issue of EmploymentEdge (June 2009) for great job leads and interview tips and community events and news! Don't forget to browse archived issues for other pertinent information on job hunting in Hampton Roads.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Steps to Take After You’ve Been Downsized
It’s a situation nobody wants to believe will happen to them, but in a turbulent economy one must always remain vigilant with regards to employment. It’s not impossible for a company, thriving in times past, to suddenly nosedive and experience financial hardship. As companies work to stay afloat, cuts in the budget must be made, and sometimes that unfortunately includes easing the burden on payroll.
So what should you do in the event you are let go from your company? First thing to remember: keep a clear head. Some may tend to panic or stress over the future – paying bills and rent or mortgage, and the basic expenses – but as you are just receiving this news it is better to think calmly and rationally before you act.
Depending on the size of your company, you will likely receive some counsel from Human Resources, along with information on your severance package – if you receive one. Know what your rights are with regards to severance, and find out how much you will receive and how long the company will continue keeping you on their insurance plan before you are cut. If your workplace has been paying into a 401K for you, assuredly that will come to and end, and you will need to know your options with regards to rolling it over into an IRA or cashing out. Because tax penalties could be involved in the decision you make, listen to what the HR manager advises as your best move.
It is strongly recommended, once you have left work for good, to file for unemployment insurance. This is another thing to discuss with Human Resources, as there may be restrictions to applying for such benefits as you receive severance. Usually, however, a company will not interfere with any claims, but it’s best to make certain. Because it could take several days, even weeks, to process an application, you will want to contact your state’s employment commission offices the day you know you are eligible.
Research your rights and expectations when you sign on for unemployment. State laws will vary, but on average a downsized worker could receive benefits for as long as six months, provided he meets the requirements to receive them and is actively looking for work.
Above all else, don’t panic, and remain positive. For many people, unemployment is only a temporary situation. Assess your options with regards to finding work, or even attending school to become more employable, and take advantage of any special programs and benefits open to you in this time.
K. Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on jobs in Norfolk.
So what should you do in the event you are let go from your company? First thing to remember: keep a clear head. Some may tend to panic or stress over the future – paying bills and rent or mortgage, and the basic expenses – but as you are just receiving this news it is better to think calmly and rationally before you act.
Depending on the size of your company, you will likely receive some counsel from Human Resources, along with information on your severance package – if you receive one. Know what your rights are with regards to severance, and find out how much you will receive and how long the company will continue keeping you on their insurance plan before you are cut. If your workplace has been paying into a 401K for you, assuredly that will come to and end, and you will need to know your options with regards to rolling it over into an IRA or cashing out. Because tax penalties could be involved in the decision you make, listen to what the HR manager advises as your best move.
It is strongly recommended, once you have left work for good, to file for unemployment insurance. This is another thing to discuss with Human Resources, as there may be restrictions to applying for such benefits as you receive severance. Usually, however, a company will not interfere with any claims, but it’s best to make certain. Because it could take several days, even weeks, to process an application, you will want to contact your state’s employment commission offices the day you know you are eligible.
Research your rights and expectations when you sign on for unemployment. State laws will vary, but on average a downsized worker could receive benefits for as long as six months, provided he meets the requirements to receive them and is actively looking for work.
Above all else, don’t panic, and remain positive. For many people, unemployment is only a temporary situation. Assess your options with regards to finding work, or even attending school to become more employable, and take advantage of any special programs and benefits open to you in this time.
K. Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on jobs in Norfolk.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Seasonal jobs can bridge the gap between permanent assignments
If you are currently unemployed and unable to find work in your area of expertise, there is no need to worry about the future. It is not uncommon for job seekers to turn down an alternate path for a short while before resuming a desired career. Temporary work is one option to bringing in income while you wait for more substantial positions, and that is why seasonal jobs are good for browsing in these troubled times.
What is a Seasonal Job?
As the name implies, a seasonal job is one that is offered on a temporary basis, usually around a busy time of year for that particular company or market. For retail shops and warehouses, the Christmas holidays are especially hectic and some places require extra help to make sure purchases are handled and shipped on time. For the tourist attraction or resort, there may be opportunities for temporary work in the summer when foot traffic is the heaviest. In popular areas like Virginia Beach, the Outer Banks, and Florida, you may find restaurants and boutiques taking on extra staff.
Finding a Seasonal Job
Take care to check the newspaper wants ads under listings for seasonal work if you are interested in a short-term job. Not all of these jobs involve manual labor or food service experience – clerical and IT work may be available during these periods to help companies handle extra paperwork and Internet queries when customer demand rises. Applying for work through a local recruiting firm is another way to find seasonal jobs, as companies working with staffing businesses will seek temporary workers this way.
The Benefits of a Seasonal Job
While manning the customer service desk of a hotel may not sound like the ideal job for an IT programmer, don’t discount the opportunities that may await you when the work is done. Your experience at a hotel, restaurant, or office could lead to work in your field should a vacancy come about – not only will you have the skills, but prior time put into the business. This is why it’s important, no matter how temporary the position, to do your best and leave with a great impression. You may need references from temporary jobs, too, so keep that in mind.
So if you are in need of a job quickly and are unable to wait for “the” job to be posted, consider temporary seasonal work to bide you until you are able to resume or jumpstart your career.
What is a Seasonal Job?
As the name implies, a seasonal job is one that is offered on a temporary basis, usually around a busy time of year for that particular company or market. For retail shops and warehouses, the Christmas holidays are especially hectic and some places require extra help to make sure purchases are handled and shipped on time. For the tourist attraction or resort, there may be opportunities for temporary work in the summer when foot traffic is the heaviest. In popular areas like Virginia Beach, the Outer Banks, and Florida, you may find restaurants and boutiques taking on extra staff.
Finding a Seasonal Job
Take care to check the newspaper wants ads under listings for seasonal work if you are interested in a short-term job. Not all of these jobs involve manual labor or food service experience – clerical and IT work may be available during these periods to help companies handle extra paperwork and Internet queries when customer demand rises. Applying for work through a local recruiting firm is another way to find seasonal jobs, as companies working with staffing businesses will seek temporary workers this way.
The Benefits of a Seasonal Job
While manning the customer service desk of a hotel may not sound like the ideal job for an IT programmer, don’t discount the opportunities that may await you when the work is done. Your experience at a hotel, restaurant, or office could lead to work in your field should a vacancy come about – not only will you have the skills, but prior time put into the business. This is why it’s important, no matter how temporary the position, to do your best and leave with a great impression. You may need references from temporary jobs, too, so keep that in mind.
So if you are in need of a job quickly and are unable to wait for “the” job to be posted, consider temporary seasonal work to bide you until you are able to resume or jumpstart your career.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Virginia Beach jobs.
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