Tag: Contract Positions

5 Skills You Need to Succeed in 2020

A new year in your case might mean a new job! It’s not enough to have the hard skills necessary to succeed in a new potential job; you must also have the soft skills that make potential employers excited to invest in you.  Take note of these 5 skills that will make employers want to make you their next hire in a heartbeat.

1. Show Well-Developed Thought Processes

Thought processes are a collective term that is used to describe the ability to efficiently reason through situations and exercise effective problem-solving skills to reach a desirable outcome. In the workplace, you must be able to identify an issue and then take steps to provide a reasonable solution. It is never a question of if you will have to solve a problem in the workplace, but when.

2. Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills

The importance of the ability to communicate cannot be overstated. Employers crave candidates who have both strong written and verbal communication skills. This means that you can effectively communicate with your supervisors, fellow staffers, and clients in a clear, concise, and professional manner.

3. Exercise Stand-Out Leadership and Management Skills

The ability to lead rather than follow is an important skill to have in the workforce as you begin the new year. Be confident in your skills to help fellow team members when they hit a stumbling block. Have the ability to solve minor problems without the need to ask you, supervisor, every little move to make. A candidate who shows leadership and managerial qualities are appealing because it shows the potential for long-term success within the company.

4. Exhibit Proficiency in Technology

You do not have to look far to realize that technology is the cornerstone of most businesses and is ever-changing. Proficiency in different types of technology and the ability and willingness to adapt to changing technology is essential for success in this new year.

5. Show Well-Honed Personal Skills

Personal skills can very often make or break you in the workplace. This is a set of skills that refer to your characteristics and behavior when it comes to the workplace. You need to exhibit adequate social skills by getting along with co-workers, supervisors, and clients. Have great time-management skills and meet every deadline with a reasonable amount of wiggle room. Stay organized in the workplace and focused enough to be able to juggle multiple tasks at the same time.

Put Your Best Foot Forward with Resource Staffing

Fine-tuning these 5 skills in the new 2020 year will set you up for success in the workforce, just as choosing the right staffing firm will help you to land your ideal assignment or job!

As one of the leading staffing firms in Texas, Resource Staffing offers great benefits and is dedicated to helping talent find the perfect job fit that matches their skill set and career goals. Search our current job openings today!

Why is December the Best Time of Year to Make a Job Change?

Are you ready to make a job change, but think it would best to wait until after the holidays? Don’t jump on that bandwagon just yet. While the common assumption is that companies don’t hire, recruiters are out of the office, and there aren’t any open positions during December, this couldn’t be farther from the truth. December is the best time of year to look for a new job, and this post explains why!

There are More Job Opportunities

That’s right! You may think as the holidays approach, job openings would be in short supply. The opposite is true. This is the time of the year when hiring mangers find out how much excess they have in their budget.

Less Fierce Competition

Most people take a hiatus during the holidays from their job search. They are focused on holiday festivities and assume that hiring managers and recruiters are doing the same. However, this is not the case. Hiring decisions are made during the holiday season, recruiters are working hard to place candidates with great companies, and you are likely to face less competition if you choose to make a job change during December.

Your Resume Will Receive More Attention from Recruiters

Being that most people take a break to focus on holiday activities, recruiters experience a slow period of receiving applicants from candidates. This means that recruiters will place more focus on your resume in their efforts to find the best candidates for companies who are in a pinch to hire new employees.

Team Up with Resource Staffing When Looking for Your Next Job

Working with one of the leading staffing firms in Texas means you will have the opportunity to reduce your time to search for job or assignment, make a good impression in interviews, have opportunities to work for Fortune 500 companies, and the benefit of experienced recruiters fine-tuning your resume. Here at Resource Staffing, we have over 30 years of experience finding the right people… right now. Contact us today and begin your journey to landing your dream job!

 

Social Media Sites to Turn to During Your Job Search

Chances are you are an avid social media user. You know how to post cute pictures of you and your furry friend and your best vacation moments. However, chances are also good that you’ve never thought of using social media in your job search. Social media are a great tool for professional networking and landing your next job. Let’s take a look at the top social media sites to turn to during your job search.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is by far the most popular social media site for those looking for jobs and recruiters searching for candidates. Network with professionals from all over the world in your field. Optimize your profile to exhibit your skillset and let recruiters know you are in the market for a position. Become a valuable part of the LinkedIn community by posting your leadership pieces as well as sharing and commenting on posts made by others.

Facebook

Facebook works a little differently from LinkedIn. You can either search for open positions on Facebook Marketplace or join company groups and pages to network. It is very important to remember that when using Facebook to search for jobs, potential employers will have access to your personal profile page.

Twitter

Twitter is an underestimated, powerful job-search platform because of its ability to facilitate communication between parties. However, it does not offer the opportunity to highlight your skills as other platforms do. For this reason, it is most effective when linked with another profile, such as your LinkedIn account. The best way to use Twitter is to follow professionals in your industry and post valuable information on your feed. Comment on and share tweets made by your peers to create a following and build your network.

Plaxo

Plaxo is not as well known as the previous three social media platforms but has real value to your job search. You can create a profile with your credentials, contact information, and what you are looking for. One of the best features that users appreciate is the ability to keep up with your contacts through an address book.

Bonus Tips!

Now that you know which social media sites to turn to, here are a few bonus tips to help you get off to the best start!

  • Remove all inappropriate posts from your social media accounts.
  • Use your real name. Hotbabe45 is not an appropriate username for networking with potential employers.
  • Completely fill out your profiles. When employers see that you aren’t dedicated to filling out your profile, they will assume you won’t be committed to a job.

One Last Tip!

Staffing firms are a great way to find your next great job. The specialists at Resource Staffing, the one of the leading staffing firms in Texas, are experts at matching the right candidates with the right employers. Submit your resume today!

 

6 Job Search Mistakes You Don’t Even Realize You’re Making

Making a career change can be time-consuming and exhausting. Here’s a little secret. There are 6 job search mistakes most people make without even realizing it. Let’s take a look at these mistakes and how you can fix them!

Including Too Much Information in Your Application

Employers are not going to spend a great deal of time reading every single detail of your resume and cover letter. There’s no need to include irrelevant information such as hobbies, personal situations, or work history that doesn’t pertain to the position at hand. Keep all the information relevant.

Failing to Network

Networking is an essential part of finding a job. Often times, jobs are secured because you’ve built a network. Take the time to meet new professionals in your field. You never know when one of your contacts will reach out to you about an open position you might be interested in.

Blindly Submitting Resumes

Blindly sending out resumes to companies whether they have open positions or not is rarely successful. Resumes that aren’t for a specific job opening are seen as spam or garbage. Not to mention, many companies have filters that prevent unsolicited emails from reaching managers.

You Don’t Understand Your Market Value

You need to understand your market value and apply for jobs that fit your skillset. Let’s face it; if you’re at entry-level, it will be hard to land a position at the senior or executive level. Research your value to your career field and reasonable compensation before you begin your job search.

Unprofessional Online Presence

These days you can put money on the fact that hiring managers will check out your social media pages. They won’t be impressed to see photos of your wild week in Panama City or inappropriate posts. Keep your online presence professional and remove all posts that you wouldn’t want your grandmother to see.

Ignoring Staffing Firms

The traditional way of searching for jobs is to go-it-alone. However, what many people do not realize is how helpful staffing agencies are when looking for a job. Staffing firms have access to open positions from employers that are not advertised on public job forums. Specialists will help you find job openings that match your skillset, fine-tune your resume, and prepare you for interviews!

One of the Leading Staffing Firms in Texas

Here’s one last tip: When it comes time for a career change, let Resource Staffing take the hassle out of your job search!

4 People You’re Competing with in Job Interviews

Congratulations! You’ve made it over the first hurdle and are invited to come in for an interview with the hiring manager of your dream job! This is extremely exciting…that is until panic sets in. What kind of candidates will you be up against? How do you best prepare?

Let’s talk about the four types of candidates you will be competing with and how to surpass!

The Extreme Studier

This candidate has spent hours researching the company, job description, and preparing answers to every possible question under the sun. However, there is a couple of weaknesses with this type of candidate:

  • He or she may come across as robotic without personable skills
  • Will not be able to answer any questions for which answers were not previously prepared

You can compete against this type of candidate only by understanding your own skillset as it relates to the job instead of memorizing answers. By doing this, you will be able to answer questions more easily and sincerely. Think of past employment examples that demonstrate your qualifications.

Flying by the Seat of Their Pants Candidate

This type of candidate tends to be incredibly charming and is accustomed to being able to smooth talk anyone, including employers. This person typically doesn’t do any homework whatsoever and tends to fabricate answers. The key to beating this type of candidate is to do your homework. You don’t have to spend hours upon hours studying, but you should understand the company, its values, and the skill set the particular position you are interviewing for demands.

The Elite Candidate

This type of candidate attended elite schools and has worked for top-rated employers. He or she was born and bred for this job, and it shows on their resume. They have prestigious references and seem unbeatable! Don’t give up just yet! Just because a candidate looks great on paper, doesn’t mean that their personality will be a fit for the company. Show a strong work ethic and willingness to work your way to the top.

The Know-It-All Candidate

This is the candidate who knows the answer to absolutely everything or, so he or she thinks. Here’s the thing, employers aren’t looking for someone who knows it all. They are looking for a candidate who is willing to learn how their company conducts business. Employers would rather have candidates who are willing to learn than know-it-all candidates who have bad habits that will need to be revised.

Resource Staffing is Ready to Assist with your Resume Preparation

When it comes to helping candidates find jobs, Resource Staffing is one of the leading staffing firms in Texas. Our specialists are dedicated to helping you from start to finish. This includes helping you prepare for your big interview! Contact us today and walk into your next interview with confidence!

How Can I Explain the Gap in My Resume?

It is common knowledge that an employment gap in your resume may send up red flags with future employers.  However, people take leave of absence from the workforce for perfectly good reasons. If the gap must be included on your resume, the key to making it a non-issue is handling it correctly during an interview. There’s no need to throw in the towel on landing a great contract opportunity just because there is a gap in your employment history. Let’s take a look at how you can explain an employment gap.

Be Up Front About Why You Took Time Off

Honesty is the best policy on this one. Reasons for taking time off:

  • Raised your kids
  • Took care of an ill or elderly loved one
  • Went back to school
  • You were laid off and had difficulty finding a new job

Whatever the reason is, explain it clearly in your interview. If you were laid off, explain why it was necessary and unavoidable even though you were a valuable part of the team.

Emphasize Why Your Skill Set Suits You for This Job

Maybe you’ve taken additional classes and expanded your skill set. This is the time to emphasize how these additional classes and skill sets will make you a better employee and how it will benefit their company. Be sure to mention any volunteer work that is relative to the position.

Show Enthusiasm for Returning to the Workforce

Employers love employees who want to work and are dedicated to doing the best job possible. Make sure you show your excitement for returning to work. Express initiative and motivation for the potential job at hand.

Have References Handy

If possible, have references from previous supervisors handy. This will confirm not only your skill set, but prove you are the type of employee you claim to be. More likely than not, having professional references will make the issue of the gap on your resume a non-issue very quickly.

Let One of the Leading Staffing Firms in Texas Help You

With over 30 years of experience, Resource Staffing is a premier staffing firm. Now that you are ready to get back into the workforce, discuss your career goals with our experienced staffing specialists. They will help you find positions that fit your skill set, fine-tune your resume and prepare you for interviews. No need to go it alone, get started with a staffing firm that can help you land a job with a Fortune 500 Company!

Prepare for Your Next Contract Job Interview With These Questions

Interviews can seem intimidating at first. What questions are going to be asked, and how do I answer these questions effectively? It is important to understand the nature of a temp job involves flexibility and the ability to adapt quickly to new environments. This is your guide to preparing for your next job interview. 

Here are common interview questions asked during temp job interviews and how you should approach them.  

What Length of Time Are You Available to Work This Position? 

This can be a tricky question because contract positions often have the potential to turn into long-term positions. It is a fine line because you do not want to seem uninterested in a full-time position, but at the same time need to convey you are content with a contract position. Explain to the interviewer you are dedicated to working the job as long as needed, you are open to a long-term position should it become available.  

Why Are You a Good Fit for This Position? 

When interviewing for a long-term position, you typically discuss your interest in the company and how your values and goals align with theirs. However, in an interview for a contract position the focus should be on the specific job duties. Employers need talent that is able to jump in and fill the void with minimal training. Make sure you have read the duties listed in the job description and directly address each one in your answer.  

Why Are You Interested in a Contract Position?  

This question allows you to explain your future career goals. Maybe you want to gain additional skills in a certain skill set or industry. Make sure your answer doesn’t shut the door on any long-term positions with the company you are interviewing with.  

How Do You Handle New Environments? 

The bottom line is contract positions require candidates to be able to assimilate to new environments quickly. Explain you enjoy working with new people and are quick to adapt to how different companies operate. You quickly and efficiently learn the best way to perform your job duties.  

When Are You Able to Start? 

Employers looking to fill contract jobs want candidates who can start immediately. Make sure you emphasize your immediate availability and even flexible work schedule. You will be more appealing as a candidate if you are willing to work outside of the normal 9 to 5.   

Let One of the Leading Staffing Firms in Texas Help Prepare You for Your Next Interview 

Resource Staffing understands what employers are looking for when filling contract positions. When you partner with our staffing firm, our specialists will help you from start to finish, including prepping for interviews. Contact us today and let one of our experienced team members help you find your next job.  

Contract-to-Hire vs. Direct-Hire – What’s the Difference and Why Should It Matter to You

A job is a job, right? Yes, this is true, but did you know there are different types of employment. Two of the most common types of employment are direct hire and contract-to-hire. It is important to understand what each means, the differences between the two and why it matters.

What is Contract-to-Hire?

An individual who is contract-to-hire does not work directly for the company, but rather works through a staffing firm for a specific amount time according to the contracting company’s needs. At the end of the established time period, the company can either establish a new contract, hire the employee full-time, or end the professional relationship. In most cases, contract-to-hire employees can convert to full-time positions if both parties agree it is the right fit.

What is Direct Hire?

A direct hire is an employee that is hired directly by a company. This type of employee does not work through a third party or on a contract basis. When an employee is hired directly by the company, they start out immediately on the company’s payroll instead of the staffing firm’s payroll.

What is the Difference Between Contract-to-Hire and Direct Hire?

It is important to understand there are significant differences between being a contract-to-hire employee and a direct-hire employee. Differences include:

  • Contract-to-Hires are typically contract positions, whereas direct hires are most commonly full-time positions.
  • Because direct hires are long term, the hiring process tends to be slower than positions which are contract-to-hire.
  • Contract-to-Hires are not eligible for company benefits, although they may be eligible for benefits through a staffing firm. Direct hires are eligible for company-offered benefits.
  • Being a contract-to-hire employee offers you the opportunity to vet a company before you commit full-timely.

Why Should it Matter to You?

When you start the job-hunting process, you should consider whether you are open to being a direct-hire candidate, contract-to-hire candidate or both. There are benefits to both and the decision depends on what you are looking for in the moment.

You might consider a contract-to-hire position if you are:

  • Looking for a contract position
  • Looking to vet a company before you commit
  • Testing the waters in a new career field

Choose the Leading Staffing Firm in Texas for Your Next Job Hunt

Whether you are looking for a company willing to direct hire or you prefer a contract-to-hire position, RESOURCE Staffing can help you. If you are looking to become a direct hire employee, our staff will work with you to make sure you are matched with a company that fits your needs and career goals. If contract-to-hire is more your cup of tea, RESOURCE Staffing offers great benefits when you choose to partner with us. Contact us today to meet with one of our dedicated specialists who can help you find the perfect job to fit your needs.

Are Thank-You Notes After an Interview Overrated?

It is customary to write thank-you notes after your wedding, baby shower or even a birthday party. What about a job interview? At first glance, the practice of sending a thank-you note for a potential employer can seem cheesy and over-the-top. Not so fast! Did you know it is customary to send a thank-you note following an interview? A thank-you note can be more than just showing gratitude to a hiring manager for their time. Let’s take a closer look at why sending thank-you notes are never overrated.

You Do Not Have to Use Snail Mail

Don’t worry about buying stationery and licking envelopes. Even though snail mail is an option, thank-you notes can be as simple as an email or even as unique as a postcard. The advantage to email is your note will reach the interviewer immediately.

Show Your Appreciation for the Interviewer’s Time

Everyone likes to feel appreciated. Thank-you notes do just that. After all, the hiring manager was interested enough to take time out of their busy schedule to give you an interview. Acknowledging this time shows a lot about your character.

Reiterate Your Interest in the Position

Thank-you notes are a great way to reinforce your interest in the position you interviewed for. It shows employers you are serious enough about the position to follow up on the job.

Showcase Your Skill Set

Sending a thank-you note is also useful for reiterating your skillset and why your experience makes you a perfect fit for the position. You do not know how many candidates were interviewed after you, so sending a thank-you note can be the perfect way to ensure you don’t get lost in the shuffle.

Helpful Tips on How to Nail a Thank-You Note

Following up with a thank-you note can be the difference between getting hired and continuing the job hunt. This is especially true if there are multiple suitable candidates. A couple of helpful tips:

  • Make sure you personalize the thank-you note in a way that lets the interviewer know you didn’t just copy and paste it.
  • Even though you want to showcase your qualifications, avoid coming across as arrogant.
  • Be sure you show your appreciation first, before selling yourself.
  • Keep the note short and concise. Employers are not interested in reading long emails that ramble.

A Staffing Firm Can Make Sure You Get It Right

As one of the staffing firms in Texas, Resource Staffing has years of experience helping qualified talent apply for jobs, nail the interview process and land the job. Contact us today and let us help you take the hassle out finding your next job.

Tips for Success Series: Be Open to New Opportunities

It is no secret that most people who are on the job hunt are looking for careers that are long term, in their area of expertise and offer realistic opportunities for advancement. However, like life, your career can be a series of stepping-stones. It will serve you well to be open-minded to job opportunities that may not exactly fit the bill you are looking for but may lead you where you want to go. Let’s take a look at new opportunities you should keep your eyes peeled for.  

Take the Contract Position 

The term contract employment has a stigma for instability. After all, you are looking for a long-term position you can advance in and build a career. However, contract employment has changed significantly over the years. Little-known facts about contract employment include: 

  • Contract positions are often at least three months in duration. Sometimes they can even last six months to one year.  
  • Oftentimes, contract positions lead to full-time positions. 
  • Contract positions are a great way for employers to vet potential candidates before committing to full-time decisions.  

Part-Time Employment Has Its Perks 

As with contract employment, part-time employment can be seen as less than ideal, due to the fact that by definition it does not offer long-term stability. Part-time employment can be a good stepping-stone into a full-time position, however.  

  • Part-time employment is a great way to network and meet new people in the industry.  
  • You can figure out if you fit in with the company’s culture and values. 
  • Affords you the time to keep looking for your dream career. 

Embrace a New Career Field 

Be open to the idea of taking opportunities that may be outside of your comfort zone. Do not be so quick to turn down a job offer outside of your career field. Taking a position outside of your career field can be helpful because: 

  • You may find a new passion or path to your dream career.  
  • You will develop a new skill set. 
  • Your professional network will be broadened. 
  • Your resume will be more well-rounded.  
  • Learning new things can be fun and exciting! 

Let the Leading Staffing Firm in Texas Broaden Your Professional Skill Set 

Not sure what direction you should go? That’s OK! RESOURCE Staffing has access to a large database of employers looking to hire qualified talent like yourself. Discuss your career interests and goals with one of our experienced staffing specialists. Our specialist can then explain all your options and help you find a job that is the perfect fit for your current situation. Contact us today and see for yourself how we can offer you new and exciting opportunities!