Today's Economy Makes Finding and Keeping a Job Harder Than Ever

Companies are starting to bring on more temp employees – with the hope to hire.

In today’s economy keeping a job – even a temp job, is more important than ever! We see people do what it takes to get the job, so we want you to understand what is required to be considered a keeper! Here are some positive ways to keep that promising job!

All of us saw the job market pick up first quarter, in fact, more jobs were added than in the previous 2 years!

The Staffing Solutions, Inc. team was so excited we were finally putting folks back to work! However, 99% of the positions we were filling were temp/contract, with an option to hire.

Companies are still “gun shy” about adding staff on a direct hire basis. It is better for them to bring on staff as “temp/contract” in case the economy sputters.

Last week, Federal Reserve officials announced that they see the U.S. economy settling into a disappointingly weak recovery this year and in 2012.

They now see the economy growing by 3.7% or slightly below next year. For much of 2011, officials had been saying growth could top 4%.

The unemployment rate could also linger at higher levels than previously thought. In April 2011, the Fed originally projected an unemployment rate between 7.6% and 7.9% by the end of next year. Now, the Fed expects the jobless rate to be between 7.8% and 8.2% by the end of 2012.

What YOU should DO to get working, and to become an indispensable team member:
1. If you are offered a temp/contract opportunity, with or without a stated opportunity for hire, DO approach the assignment as a “temp to hire”!

2. DO keep your personal “issues” personal. If you have problems at home, don't discuss them with your new co-workers. Companies fear “black cloud types.” Don’t give them a reason to worry that your problems may cause you to miss work, leave early, go in late, or use company time for personal issues.

3. DO show up a few minutes early every day, DO take notes and ask questions, and if you have down time, DO ask for additional work!

4. DO show enthusiasm and smile (it sounds silly, but it works!). Times are tough, and in tough times we all prefer to be surrounded by upbeat, positive people. Even if your life has been tough, remember it has been tough for all. Be enthusiastic, a team player, and expect a positive outcome!

Companies believe that there are millions of unemployed folks dying for a decent job, and if they think that your life issues will interfere with work, chances are the employer will terminate you and ask us for a replacement.

Bottom line: before you pick up the phone to call in or to tell us you are leaving your assignment early, think twice. Ask yourself, can this personal issue be taken care of outside of work hours or on a lunch break?

A Thank You note that made our day!

Dear Bonny and Pam,

It was a pleasure working with you, too! I'm very grateful for all the help from Staffing Solutions, particularly the opportunity to upgrade my skills with the tutorials, and of course, the temporary positions that added to my block of experience. I will not hesitate to recommend Staffing Solutions to anyone who finds themselves in need of the services of an employment agency.

I am enjoying my new position with ABC Company. There is great opportunity in this organization, and it suits my particular skill set and employment goals.

Thank you again for all your help and support.

Sincerely,

Debbie

Are you loyal? Take the test to find out!

Even as society seems to make it increasingly difficult for people to remain loyal to their jobs, a growing body of research indicates that employees that stay with one company average greater salary increases over time AND have more opportunity for being creative… To find out if you are the loyal type, read on...

https://www.staffingsolutionsinc.com/WSJ-Take%20the%20Fidelity%20Test-Jun2011.pdf

You are what you wear....Dress to impress in an Interview!

Believe it or not, you are examined from head to toe in an interview. Not only is your experience and personality sized up...but also your appearance!

In an ideal world, looks wouldn’t matter, but unfortunately people draw conclusions based on your overall presentation. First impressions are critical, especially when you are interviewing because you will not get another chance to sell yourself.

For the first time since the recession, people are starting to get interviews (yes—the job market seems to slowly be picking up—finally!). Be sure you are wearing the right clothes, the right amount of make-up, and have a professional hair style for the interview!

In fact, the way you present yourself can actually set the tone for the interaction during an interview and help the interviewer form an opinion about you! This can make or break your chances of getting the job.

Most recently, a client commented to us after they interviewed our applicant that she wore too much make up.

For the more mature jobseeker, make sure your hair cut, clothes, and make up are up-to-date! Wearing an out–of-date outfit and/or hair style may signal to potential employers that your skills are not up to date.

How to Dress to Impress:
1. Clothes must be crisp, clean, and pressed! Also, be sure your outfit is current and style for your figure and age!
2. Scuffed shoes are a big NO! Be sure to wear nice shoes that are in good shape!
3. Hair, make up and eyeglasses must be professional and “up-to-date!”
4. Trim and manicured nails are a must!
5. Be careful with jewelry– too much sends the wrong message and keep it simple.

If you do not have the funds to buy new clothes or get a new hair cut, check out these low cost options:

Beauty Schools: There are several schools in the St. Louis Area that offer affordable hair cut and color options! Check out National Academy in South County or Xenon International Academy in Ballwin!

Resale Stores: Resale stores are a great place to find a bargain on gently used clothing items. A place to check out is The Scholar Shop in Clayton and Webster Groves! They offer designer clothes and wardrobe basics at great prices!

Discount Stores: Check out Marshall’s and T.J. Maxx for a great deal on designer and brand name shoes, clothing, handbags, and more!

Make-Up: Many cosmetic counters at retail stores offer free make-overs! This is a great way to update your look and often you can recreate the look at home without making a major purchase.


Want to know how top notch applicants “Dress to Impress” for an interview?

Check out an example here:
https://www.staffingsolutionsinc.com/dressingforsuccess.htm

She is crisp, polished, and professional! Be sure you look the part on your next interview!