How Temporary Holiday Work is Perfect for Students

Temporary holiday jobs offer students a fantastic opportunity to gain work experience, earn extra cash, and make the most of the festive season. Here are some reasons and even a actual example of why temporary holiday work is perfect for students and tips for finding the right opportunities.

Employee Successes like “Astrid Cante Espinoza” prove that temp work can lead to great things when done right with the right help.

Client Quote: Astrid is an outstanding employee. She has perfect attendance, collaborates effectively with everyone, and puts in a strong effort. She is also on track to become a full-time employee in the bindery. Keep up the fantastic work, Astrid! We truly appreciate everything you do!

Holiday temp jobs give students flexible hours

Flexibility with Schedules

Temporary holiday jobs are often designed with flexibility in mind. Students can take advantage of roles with part-time hours or weekend shifts, making it easier to balance work with study schedules. Many employers offer evening or overnight shifts, which can be ideal for students who are busy during the day. Check them out here!

Valuable Work Experience

Holiday jobs give students exposure to real-world work environments. They can develop transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management. Working in retail, hospitality, or event planning during the holiday season helps students build resumes with relevant experience.

Holiday temp jobs give savings with extra cash for expenses.

Extra Cash for the Holidays

For students, the holiday season often comes with added expenses for gifts, travel, or personal goals. A temporary job provides a much-needed financial boost. Many holiday positions also offer overtime pay, especially during peak times like Black Friday or the week before Christmas.

Networking Opportunities

Holiday jobs are a great way to meet new people, from coworkers to managers. These connections can lead to future job opportunities or serve as professional references for internships or long-term positions.

Easy Entry-Level Positions

Most temporary holiday roles don’t require extensive experience, making them ideal for students. Common positions include:

Perks Beyond Pay

Some employers offer seasonal workers discounts, free meals, or even bonuses for completing their contracts. These perks can be especially appealing to students who want to stretch their earnings further.

Pro Tip for Success

Students should apply early, as holiday jobs fill up quickly. Crafting a strong, tailored resume and preparing for quick interviews will improve chances of landing a position. PS: Midwest Staffing can help with all these things. Apply now to see how we can help.

Temporary holiday work provides students with an opportunity to grow professionally, earn money, and still enjoy the festive spirit. It’s the perfect stepping stone for future career success while making the most of the holiday season.

Navigating the Transition from Temporary to Permanent Employment

Navigating the Transition from Temporary to Permanent Employment

Temporary employment or Temp to Hire offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience, develop skills, and make professional connections. However, many temporary employees aspire to secure a permanent position. Transitioning from temporary to permanent employment requires strategic planning, effective communication, and a proactive approach. Midwest Staffing also offers several Direct Hire opportunities to those that meet requirements of the client or have shown exceptional skills for the position. Here’s how you can navigate this transition successfully.

1. Excel in Your Current Role

The first step towards securing a permanent position is to excel in your current temporary role. Show your dedication, reliability, and ability to perform tasks efficiently. Exceeding expectations will not only make a positive impression on your supervisors but also demonstrate your value to the company. According to the Harvard Business Review, employees who consistently exceed performance expectations are more likely to be considered for permanent roles (Harvard Business Review, 2020).

2. Communicate Your Goals

Open communication is key to transitioning from a temporary to a permanent position. Make your career goals known to your supervisors and express your interest in a permanent role. By doing so, you signal your commitment to the company and your desire to grow within the organization. Career experts at Forbes emphasize the importance of discussing your aspirations with your employer to increase your chances of securing a permanent position (Forbes, 2021).

3. Network Within the Company

Building relationships with colleagues and supervisors can significantly impact your chances of becoming a permanent employee. Networking within the company allows you to learn more about available opportunities and demonstrate your enthusiasm for being part of the team. A study by LinkedIn revealed that networking is one of the most effective ways to find job opportunities and advance your career (LinkedIn, 2021).

4. Seek Feedback and Improve

Regularly seek feedback from your supervisors to understand areas where you can improve. Constructive feedback helps you grow professionally and shows your willingness to learn and develop. Incorporating feedback into your work can make you a more valuable employee, increasing your chances of being offered a permanent position. According to a report by Gallup, employees who receive regular feedback are more engaged and perform better at work (Gallup, 2019).

5. Enhance Your Skills

Continuously enhancing your skills and staying updated with industry trends can make you a more attractive candidate for permanent roles. Take advantage of training opportunities offered by the company and consider pursuing relevant certifications. The Balance Careers suggests that upskilling can significantly improve your employability and career prospects (The Balance Careers, 2020).

6. Show Flexibility and Adaptability

Demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in your role can make a lasting impression on your employer. Being open to taking on different tasks and responsibilities shows your willingness to contribute to the company’s success. Employers value employees who can adapt to changing circumstances and meet the organization’s needs effectively.

7. Understand Company Culture

Understanding and aligning with the company culture is crucial for transitioning to a permanent position. Employers look for candidates who fit well within the team and share the company’s values. Take the time to learn about the company’s mission, values, and work environment, and show how you embody these attributes in your daily work.

8. Be Patient and Persistent

Securing a permanent position often requires patience and persistence. Continue to perform well in your temporary role, stay proactive in seeking opportunities, and remain positive throughout the process. Even if a permanent position is not immediately available, your hard work and dedication can leave a lasting impression, leading to future opportunities.

Conclusion

Transitioning from Temporary employment or Temp to Hire to Direct Hire or permanent employment is a journey that requires dedication, effective communication, and a proactive approach. By excelling in your current role, communicating your goals, networking, seeking feedback, enhancing your skills, showing flexibility, understanding company culture, and being patient, you can increase your chances of securing a permanent position. Embrace the opportunities that temporary employment offers, and use them as stepping stones to achieve your long-term career goals.

10 COMMONLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Your resume impressed the managers and now you’re scheduled to return for an interview. Reviewing commonly asked questions promotes confidence and assurance when interviewing. Be prepared to give proficient and well thought-out answers, highlighting skills that match the job position. Allow room for creativity, knowing you may be asked more questions than expected. After reading the questions below, I invite you to rehearse with family and friends until you are confident for your big day.

10 COMMONLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

1.  What are your career goals in the upcoming years?

The idea is to share a career goal(s), and the steps your taking in achieving them. Having long-term and short-term goals, paints a picture of your aspirations and professional ambitions. Companies like individuals who are motivated and goal oriented, who are an asset to their team.

2. Did your previous employer have any areas that needed improvement? 

The focus is the ability to identify potential problems, offer innovative strategies, and implement new solutions accordingly. This is a great opportunity to highlight your leadership skills, as well as ideas that were successful for you in the past.

3.  Can you describe a situation that was challenging, and explain how did you handle it?

Discrepancies are bound to occur, yet how we handle the issue makes all the difference. Think outside the box and get creative when pondering different resolutions. Perhaps you can share of a scenario when you went beyond your job duties to assist a client who was upset with the information he received. You gathered additional resources, made phone calls, printed reference articles for the client. The client was pleased with your service and decided to purchase another product. This scenario shows flexibility, dedication, and leadership skills in part of the employee.

4.  What are looking to gain from our company?

This is a tricky question. Don’t want to focus on pay, but rather mention other positive attributes of the company such longevity and opportunities for growth. Be open and express some qualities you see would be beneficial for working in such an organization. 

5.  What are your strengths related to this position?

The employer wants to know what you have to offer. Why they should choose you over the other candidates? Review the job description, and mention keywords that match your skills and abilities.  Highlight on attributes you possess which pertain to the position at hand. For example, if you are applying for a customer service role, mention you have great people and team player skills. Sharing previous work history, internships, and credentials is also a plus.

6.  What are some areas you are looking to improve?

My recommendation is to share an attribute that can be tolerated by colleagues. These should be traits which can be overlooked. For example, you may need to become more proficient in another language (e.g. French or Spanish), would like to master a software program (e.g. Excel; that is if you are not applying for a computer position), or would like to make time for hobbies, etc.

7.  Why are you leaving your current employer?

The company is curious as to why you chose to resign from your previous employer. If it’s related to pay the manager may question commitment, and longevity from your behalf. Other alternatives to mention include lack of benefits from your previous employer, and the financial security of having a full-time employment opportunity.

8.  What interests you in applying for this position?

In other words, why did you choose this company from other employment opportunities? This is a great time to express your passions in the job role, and qualities that make you the perfect fit for the job role. Be specific by stating features that made this company stand out from the rest. For example, the length of time the company has been in business, or the professional assistance you’ve received from day one when you submitted an application.

9.  Are you willing to relocate if needed?

It’s important to show flexibility and openness to change. This may never be required by the employer, but it provides a clue on how the individual responds to change. Be honest and share your limitations. Perhaps you are flexible and willing to relocate, yet only within the same state or county. Most companies will value your desire for a fair compromise, and put into account your honest response.

10. Do you have any questions for me? Be prepared to ask questions. This shows eagerness and interest in part of the potential candidate, to learn more about the company. Also, it speaks your standards in selecting a stable occupation, and our professional confidence when considering a position. This is a good time to inquire on company benefits, scheduling, and job expectations.

These are the top ten commonly asked interview questions. There may be lots more, so be prepared! I encourage you practice answering these questions over and over agin, until you feel confident for your interview. Wishing all the best on your big day!

TIPS WHEN SEEKING WORK OPPORTUNITIES THAT OFFER JOB GROWTH

If you are seeking stable employment in a company that offers career growth, then this is a must read for you! When looking for a job it’s important to interview and evaluate potential employers. Yes, the company is making an investment in hiring you, but you are also contributing time and energy into the company. In the like manner jobseekers should inquire about opportunities that enhance professional growth.

When seeking employment it’s key to determine your career goals and aspirations. If you are looking expand in your profession, then it’s crucial to communicate such aspirations with potential employers. Inquire about available job promotions as you gain seniority with the company. Doing so provides insight into professional ambitions and seriousness in growing with the company. Below are sample questions to consider when selecting jobs that offer growth potentials.

QUESTIONS TO ASK POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS:

1. Are promotions available as I expand my skills on the job?

2. Is there growth potential in different departments of the company?

3. How often does the company evaluate employee performance?

4. If given the opportunity can employees expand in his or her job roles?

5. Can employees request transfers if a promotion is available at another location?

6. What are the requirements to be considered for a leadership position?

7. Is there a website were I can research your employee benefits and growth opportunities?

HOW TO SHINE IN TODAY’S COMPETITIVE JOB MARKET

In today’s competitive job market it’s tough to shine amongst other qualified individuals. Many wonder why some employees with less education acquire higher positions, while others with higher education and better credentials are not promoted? This question puzzles many employees who have been in companies for years and see a new hire quickly going up the company ladder. There are ways to excel in your job regardless of credentials or level of experience. In this article we will review key factors to help you excel in any particular job setting.

Laurie Erdman author of Burnout: Identify It- Extinguish It. Ignite Your Life! writes, in The Huffington Post, three ways to excel at work. Erdman recommends the following:

1. Eat brain foods such as nuts, cold-water fish, spinach, and pumpkins seeds. These foods are a great source of healthy fats (polyunsaturated & monounsaturated) and low in hydrogenated fats.

2. Sleep is not for slackers, and a lack of sleep has shown to reduce productivity. She recommends 8 hours of sleep to prevent what she calls “survival mode” or just getting by at work. 

3.Lastly, she emphasizes on the practice of giving. Suggesting employees to go out of their way and do something nice for another co-worker. This concept of giving back to the company provides an opportunity for the individual to feel good about their performance, as well as increase their value in the company.

Healthy, energized, and giving employees are assets to any company. They bring positive ideas that burst creativity and business growth. Although today’s job market can be competitive and challenging, there are ways to shine and excel in your job!

HOW TO THRIVE IN A MULTI-CULTURAL WORK ENVIRONMENT

There are numerous benefits to working with diverse teams of co-workers. Multi-cultural work environments bring forth positive attributes like creativity, new perspectives, unique solutions, and the influence of workplace culture. Working with individuals of different ethnic backgrounds may also present challenges and misunderstandings. In today’s multi-cultural society it’s crucial for employees to learn norms and expectations of other cultures. Embracing differences promotes staff and client relations, and also contributes to pleasant work environments.

TIPS TO THRIVING IN A MULTI-CULTURAL WORKPLACE:

1. Begin by researching common cultures in your work environment. There are interesting facts and suggestions to promote social skills on the job. Learning beliefs and behaviors brings understanding and improves communication among staff.

2. Speak to your supervisor about your interest. Leaders can direct you to resources, valuable information, and conduct meetings for the benefit of all employees.

3. Show curiosity in various cultures. For instance, if a staff member brings an ethnic dish to the holiday party you can ask about the ingredients, or if the dish is a typical ethnic food, etc. The idea is to welcome other cultures and to encourage individuals to share their ethnic backgrounds.

4. Communicate any misunderstandings with your supervisor before confronting an employee. Supervisors can share light on the situation providing information you may not have known. They can also speak to the employee about the issue giving your perspective in a professional manner. Be sure to follow-up with your supervisor to ensure matters have been resolved, and to discuss solutions. 

5. Be respectful of cultural differences. It’s rare to agree on all matters among people who share common backgrounds, let a lone when interacting with different cultures. Be mindful of other employee’s beliefs and ethnic norms. Keep in mind that embracing differences helps promote relationships and a better workplace.

TIPS FOR JOBSEEKERS WITH DISABILITIES SEEKING EMPLOYMENT

Pursuing employment can be quite intense as jobseekers prepare to highlight occupational skills and potentials that supersede those of other applicants. The job search requires thorough preparation such as proper attire, anticipating interview questions, and doing researching on the company and/or leadership team. People with disabilities may face other challenges along with the normal stressors involved in seeking work. Unfortunately there are instances were employers stereotype people with disabilities, making it difficult for some individuals to find fulfilling jobs. As a result some people prefer not to share their disabilities for fear of humiliation or disqualifications of potential job openings. Sadly such individuals are deprived from the deserved opportunity to share his or her given potential in the workplace.

The United States Department of Labor defines The American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA) as follows; “The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, transportation, public accommodation, communications, and governmental activities. The ADA also establishes requirements for telecommunications relay services.” Employers cannot discriminate when providing employee trainings, promotions, or benefits. Also, upon hire employers must provide suitable accommodations for people with disabilities to meet job requirements. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) advises jobseekers to determine if job duties can be performed with adequate employer accommodations when seeking employment. Doing so decreases the burden of applying to numerous jobs and ensures protection under the ADA.

The EEOC comments further on how the ADA defines disability noting:

To be protected under the ADA, you must have, have a record of, or be regarded as having a substantial, as opposed to a minor, impairment. A substantial impairment is one that significantly limits or restricts a major life activity such as hearing, seeing, speaking, walking, breathing, performing manual tasks, caring for oneself, learning or working.

TIPS FOR JOBSEEKERS WITH DISABILITIES SEEKING EMPLOYMENT:

1. Research your employment rights. The EEOC and The United States Department of Labor offer resourceful information on ADA and related topics.

2. Partner with organizations in your area for employment opportunities and other available services for people with disabilities.

3. Focus on your strengths. We each have unique skills and abilities to share with others. Highlight individual skills and qualities that will be of positive contribution to the related job position. For instance: “I am excited to apply for the administrative assistance position. I feel confident in my potential to not only meet but also exceed company expectations. I am great with people skills and love to help others.” If the opportunity allows you can share your vision and potentials with the interviewer.

4. Work with a human resource or staffing personnel who can provide sound guidance and assistance throughout the hiring process. Staffing professionals are experienced in the field and can assist with resume tips and interview preparation. Human resource personnel can also suggest how, when, and to whom to address personal accommodations and disability questions.

5. Never feel inferior to other applicants. Career success is highly influenced by our mental attitude to follow through goals and aspirations with confidence. You know your individual strengths better than anyone else. Tap into your personal gifts and talents, seeking employment opportunities that align with your skills, abilities, and career goals.

BENEFITS OF STAFFING SERVICES WHEN HIRING EMPLOYEES

Financial stressors that trouble employees with today’s economic demands also weigh down on business owners. Businesses account for multiple expenses such as rent, taxes, insurances, employee benefit programs (retirement, health insurance, etc.), staff payroll, supplies, work equipment, marketing, and more. It can be challenging to hire top professionals with a tight budget, yet settling on staffing services may turn to be more costly than expected.

Qualified jobseekers are confident in what they can offer, and seek stable work opportunities with potential job growth. It can be alluring to cut on staffing services to save cost, but doing so cheats you from hand-selected workers who’ve been interviewed and screened by professional staffing agents. Filtering job candidates also takes time and efforts away from important matters that cannot be delegated to other business professionals or team members. Hiring qualified workers involves through interviewing, assessing employment history, drug screening, verifying references, training, and more. Investing in a trusted staffing agency, like Midwest Staffing Group removes the care of the entire hiring process so your leadership skills can be focused in areas that increase profitability and business growth.

Staffing services can save your business time and money. The expenses and training involved in hiring new staff can be detrimental when new employees fail to meet job responsibilities and company standards. In addition to screening resumes and handling the entire hiring process, Midwest Staffing Group learns your business and professional aspirations to ensure top candidates. Staff members are an essential component to business success. When hiring new employees it’s key to consider short-term and long-term investments, and the benefits of seeking services for optimal business outcomes. To learn more about our services and what makes us different from other staffing agencies.

HOW TO STAY CALM & COLLECTED ON YOUR FIRST DAY OF WORK

The first day on your new job has arrived! You’re anxious, scared, and intimidated by more experienced employees. Everyone knows you’re a new graduate and the look of fear on your face clearly spells out “rookie”. There are ways to create an atmosphere that promotes business relationships and a positive first impression. Yes, even if you are fresh out of graduate school!

STRATEGIES TO STAY CALM & COLLECTED ON YOUR FIRST DAY OF WORK:

1. Keep your cool. Literally. No one likes to share an office with a sweaty and stinky co-worker. Although it may be nerve wrecking to start the “job of your dreams”, anticipate all possible scenarios by selecting comfortable and airy attire that fits your job position. This will keep you looking and feeling fresh.

2. Maintain your confidence. There are many employees, which can attest that longevity doesn’t always amount to a qualified employee or to better work performance.  There are new hires including graduates, which are just as skilled and perform better on the job than employees with seniority. Be confident in yourskills and area of expertise, knowing you have much to contribute to the company.

3. Don’t be intimidated to ask questions. Many times new employees want to be self-sufficient from day one, with the idea of not burdening others or delaying the work flow. In all truth, everyone expects new hires to have lots of questions and to go through a period of training. During this time mistakes may occur, but they can serve as a springboard for future success.  I’m not referring to negligence or lack of professional conduct, but rather to a general expectation that new hires are in a process of learning and becoming acquainted with the workplace.

4. Familiarize yourself with the work environment. Arrive a few minutes early and get acquainted with the work setting. For example, locate emergency exits, restrooms, employee lounge, meeting rooms, storage rooms, and employee login area. Becoming acquainted with your job setting is one less stressor that can be addressed early on in your work day. Some employees are privileged to attend orientation prior to the first day of work, yet regardless all employees can arrive a few minutes early and explore the environment.

5.  Greet everyone with a friendly attitude. For the most part people like the company of other positive individuals. There’s a lot to learn and mentally digest on the first day of work, and there may be little time left to interact with co-workers. Break time is a great opportunity to become acquainted with other employees in your workplace. 

Wishing you much success on your first day of work!

MOTIVATING FACTORS FOR MILLENNIALS IN THE WORKFORCE 

A large influx of millennials are continuously entering the workforce. Many of which are ambitious for success and eager to venture into new career opportunities. What inspires millennials in the job market? Does Generation Y have different career expectations than baby boomers or previous generations?

These young professionals in their 20’s and 30’s are finding creative ways of increasing profit, productivity, and yielding optimal results with limited resources and time. Many employers are cognitive of these positive contributions shifting to a more flexible and accommodating work cultures. With the growing population of millennials in the job market it’s crucial for leaders to understand what inspires potential employees.

WHAT ARE MILLENNIALS SEEKING IN THE JOB MARKET?

An incentive for many young professionals is flexibility and job culture.  According to a study conducted by PWC, 59% of millennials search for employers whose social responsibilities values align with his or her own, and over 30% anticipate flexible work hours. When asked what makes an organization attractive, 52% millennials responded opportunities for career growth.

DOES GENERATION Y DIFFER IN JOB VALUES FROM PREVIOUS GENERATIONS? 

With advances in technology and high demands for quick turnaround, it’s no surprise young professionals often seek career flexibility over predictability and longevity. Many employers are cognitive of the benefits in moving away from traditional work modalities to more flexible options that attract new hires. Surprisingly, only 8% of millennials valued diversity and equal work opportunities. Also, employer reputation is not as prized as once was in previous generations.

DOES SALARY MOTIVATE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS? 

Millennials value career fulfillment over higher pay. PWC documents 32% of millennials were willing to accept lower salaries, while only 14% were take positions outside their job roles. Although pay is an incentive in attracting millennials, job fulfilment and flexibility are taking lead. 

For more stats on millennials and the workforce visit PWC.