7 WAYS TEMPORARY STAFFING AGENCIES HELP BRIDGE THE SKILLS GAP

TEMPORARY STAFFING AGENCIES HELP BRIDGE THE SKILLS GAP Midwest Staffing

In today’s rapidly changing economy, businesses are finding it harder than ever to keep up with the demand for specialized skills. The rise of new technologies, shifting market trends, and evolving job roles have contributed to a growing skills gap. Many companies struggle to find workers with the expertise needed to remain competitive. One solution that has proven effective is partnering with temporary staffing agencies to bridge this gap.

Skills Gap and its Impact

This refers to a situation where the skills and capabilities of candidates do not match those that companies need. This makes it difficult for hiring managers to find the right fit for their open positions. 

According to a study made by the United States Chamber of Commerce, 74 percent of recruitment leaders agree there is a gap in skills within the current labor market.¹ 

This gap causes a delay in the hiring process and can hurt companies in various ways. Some examples of its negative impacts are as follows: 

  • Lower Productivity Rates: When there are only a few qualified people working on a project, the amount of time needed to accomplish milestones lengthens. 
  • Lower Quality Outputs: Some employees are still required to finish projects assigned to them despite not having the required skills for the tasks. This results in lower-quality products or services being offered. 
  • Decrease in Profits: When production takes longer and creates an output that doesn’t meet quality standards, the company’s profits can be significantly affected as well as its reputation in the market. 

 
Take the manufacturing industry as an example. The evolution of technology and the constant innovation of machines have forced employers to seek different skills than what they would usually look for. In other words, the skills and expertise needed to work in the industry are changing. 

In 2021, the National Association of Manufacturers found that 80 percent of companies say their top challenge is the inability to attract and retain a quality workforce. This is projected to worsen as baby boomers continue to retire.²

Since there are significantly fewer employees than needed, experts predict a potential negative economic impact amounting to 2.5 trillion dollars if the gaps continue to exist.

Here’s how temporary staffing agencies are playing a crucial role in helping companies manage the skills gap:

1. Access to Specialized Talent

Temporary staffing agencies maintain extensive networks of professionals with diverse skill sets. Whether it’s in IT, healthcare, manufacturing, or other specialized fields, staffing firms can quickly match businesses with workers who possess the exact expertise they need. This is particularly valuable when a company requires skills for short-term projects or niche tasks but doesn’t need permanent staff for these roles.

2. Flexible Workforce Solutions

The fluctuating demand for certain skills is a challenge for many businesses. Companies may need specific expertise for a short period to meet project deadlines or ramp up production. Temporary staffing agencies offer flexibility by providing on-demand skilled workers who can be hired for limited engagements. This ensures that businesses can scale their workforce efficiently without long-term commitments.

3. Quick Deployment of Skilled Workers

When a company faces an urgent need for a particular skill set, sourcing and hiring employees through traditional methods can take weeks, if not months. Temporary staffing agencies streamline this process by having pre-vetted candidates ready to be deployed. This allows companies to fill critical gaps quickly, minimizing downtime and ensuring projects stay on track.

4. Training and Upskilling Opportunities

Many temporary staffing agencies invest in training and development programs to ensure their talent pool remains competitive. Agencies offer upskilling programs, workshops, and certifications, which help workers stay updated on the latest industry trends and technologies. This benefits both workers and companies, as employers gain access to a continually evolving workforce that can adapt to changing needs.

5. Cost-Effective Staffing

Hiring full-time employees with specialized skills can be expensive, especially if those skills are only needed for a short period. Temporary staffing agencies provide a cost-effective alternative, allowing businesses to hire skilled professionals as needed. This helps reduce overhead costs associated with salaries, benefits, and long-term commitments, while still gaining access to high-quality talent.

6. Reducing Risk in Hiring

One of the biggest risks for businesses is hiring the wrong person for the job. Temporary staffing agencies help mitigate this risk by offering flexible contracts and trial periods. Companies can evaluate a worker’s performance before making any long-term commitments, ensuring a better fit for both the business and the employee.

7. Filling the Gaps in Emerging Industries

As new industries and technologies emerge, the skills gap becomes more pronounced. Temporary staffing agencies are adept at identifying trends and recruiting professionals in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, and renewable energy. This allows businesses to tap into the latest innovations without falling behind in the competitive landscape.

Resources and Further Reading:

These resources provide deeper insights into how staffing agencies are addressing the skills gap and the impact they have on the workforce.

Managing Seasonal Workforce Fluctuations with Temporary Staffing

In industries like retail, agriculture, hospitality, and manufacturing, demand can vary drastically throughout the year. This fluctuation can create challenges for maintaining an appropriately sized workforce, leading to overstaffing during slower periods and understaffing during peak times. One effective solution to this problem is leveraging temporary staffing. This strategy allows businesses to adapt to changing needs while controlling costs and maintaining operational efficiency.

Understanding Seasonal Workforce Fluctuations

Seasonal fluctuations refer to the predictable changes in demand for labor that occur at specific times of the year. For instance, retailers often need extra staff during the holiday shopping season, while agricultural businesses require more workers during planting and harvest times. These fluctuations can strain permanent staff and lead to burnout, increased overtime costs, and even reduced customer satisfaction due to longer wait times or lower service quality.

The Role of Temporary Staffing

Temporary staffing provides a flexible solution to these challenges. By hiring temporary workers, businesses can scale their workforce up or down based on current needs without the long-term commitment associated with permanent hires. This flexibility is particularly valuable during peak seasons, allowing companies to meet increased demand without overextending their resources.

Benefits of Temporary Staffing

  1. Time and Cost Efficiency: Hiring temporary staff helps manage costs by reducing the need for overtime pay and avoiding the expenses associated with permanent hires, such as benefits and long-term salaries not to mention training time. On average, it costs about $4,700 to hire a full-time employee, according to a study by SHRM. In contrast, a temporary worker costs only $857.
  2. Quick Onboarding: Temporary staffing often provides workers who are already trained or have relevant experience, reducing the time and resources needed for onboarding.
  3. Workforce Flexibility: Temporary staff can be hired for specific periods, projects, or tasks, allowing businesses to adapt to seasonal peaks and troughs seamlessly.
  4. Reduced Burnout for Permanent Staff: Bringing in temporary workers during peak times can alleviate the workload on permanent employees, reducing the risk of burnout and maintaining high levels of productivity.
  5. Trial Period for Permanent Positions: Temporary staffing can also serve as a trial period for potential permanent hires. Employers can evaluate workers’ performance before offering a full-time position, ensuring a good fit for the role and company culture.

Best Practices for Managing Temporary Staff

To maximize the benefits of temporary staffing, businesses should follow a few best practices:

  1. Clear Communication: Clearly define roles, responsibilities, and expectations for temporary staff. This helps ensure that temporary workers can integrate smoothly into your existing team.
  2. Proper Training: While temporary workers often come with relevant experience, providing brief, targeted training specific to your business can enhance their productivity and effectiveness.
  3. Integration with Permanent Staff: Encourage collaboration between temporary and permanent staff. This helps create a cohesive team environment and can lead to better overall performance.
  4. Planning Ahead: Anticipate your seasonal staffing needs in advance. Working with a staffing agency to line up temporary workers before the peak season begins ensures you’re not caught off guard by sudden surges in demand.
  5. Compliance and Legal Considerations: Ensure that your use of temporary staffing complies with labor laws and regulations. This includes understanding the differences between temporary workers and independent contractors, as well as ensuring proper compensation and workplace safety.

Conclusion

Temporary staffing is an essential tool for managing seasonal workforce fluctuations. By strategically utilizing temporary workers, businesses can meet seasonal demands without overextending their permanent staff or budget. This approach not only improves operational efficiency but also contributes to a more positive work environment for all employees. Reach out to us and learn more about how Temporary, Temp to Hire & Direct Hire staffing can be right for you and your business.

BUILDING A FLEXIBLE CAREER PATH THROUGH TEMPORARY WORK

Building a Flexible Career Path through Temporary Work

In today’s rapidly changing job market, flexibility has become a cornerstone of career development. Traditional career paths, characterized by long-term commitments to a single employer, are increasingly being replaced by more dynamic and adaptable approaches. One such approach is leveraging temporary work to build a flexible and fulfilling career path. Temporary work, or temp work, offers numerous benefits that can help professionals navigate the modern employment landscape with greater agility and confidence.

The Rise of Temporary Work

Temporary work has seen a significant rise in recent years, driven by both employer needs and worker preferences. Companies are increasingly relying on temporary employees to manage fluctuating workloads, fill short-term gaps, and bring in specialized skills for specific projects. Simultaneously, workers are seeking greater control over their schedules, diverse work experiences, and opportunities to develop new skills without long-term commitments (Forbes).

Advantages of Temporary Work

  1. Skill Development and Diversification: Temporary work provides an excellent platform to acquire and refine a wide range of skills. Each assignment presents a new environment, different challenges, and unique learning opportunities. This continuous exposure helps you build a versatile skill set, making you more adaptable and valuable in the job market (Indeed).
  2. Networking Opportunities: Working in various organizations allows you to expand your professional network significantly. Each temporary role introduces you to new colleagues, managers, and industry contacts. Building a robust network can open doors to future job opportunities, collaborations, and valuable industry insights (LinkedIn).
  3. Career Exploration: Temporary work is an ideal way to explore different industries, roles, and company cultures without long-term commitments. It enables you to gain firsthand experience and insights into what suits you best, helping you make more informed career decisions. This exploration can be particularly beneficial for recent graduates or individuals considering a career change (The Balance Careers).
  4. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: One of the most attractive aspects of temporary work is the flexibility it offers. You can choose assignments that fit your schedule, allowing for better work-life balance. This flexibility is especially valuable for those managing family responsibilities, pursuing further education, or engaging in personal projects (FlexJobs).
  5. Income Stability: Contrary to the perception that temporary work is unstable, it can provide a steady income stream when managed effectively. By maintaining a roster of potential assignments and staying proactive in your job search, you can ensure a consistent flow of work and income. Additionally, temporary roles often come with competitive pay rates, especially for specialized skills (Monster).

Strategies for Success in Temporary Work

To maximize the benefits of temporary work and build a flexible career path, consider the following strategies:

  1. Be Proactive and Organized: Stay ahead in your job search by maintaining an updated resume and a list of potential employers and staffing agencies. Utilize online job boards, social media, and professional networks to find new opportunities. Keeping a calendar of assignments and deadlines will help you manage multiple roles effectively (CareerBuilder).
  2. Continuous Learning and Adaptability: Embrace every temporary role as a learning opportunity. Stay curious, ask questions, and seek feedback to improve your performance. Being adaptable and open to new experiences will make you a more attractive candidate for future assignments (Harvard Business Review).
  3. Market Your Skills: Clearly articulate your diverse skill set and experiences on your resume and professional profiles. Highlight your ability to adapt quickly, work in various environments, and bring value to different types of projects. Demonstrating your versatility will attract a wider range of job opportunities (TopResume).
  4. Build Strong Relationships: Make a positive impression in every temporary role by being reliable, professional, and collaborative. Building strong relationships with colleagues and supervisors can lead to repeat assignments, recommendations, and permanent job offers (Entrepreneur).
  5. Balance Short-term Goals with Long-term Vision: While temporary work is inherently short-term, it’s important to keep your long-term career goals in mind. Use each assignment strategically to build skills and experiences that align with your overarching career aspirations. Regularly reassess your career plan and adjust your approach as needed (Fast Company).

Conclusion

Building a flexible career path through temporary work is a viable and rewarding strategy in today’s job market. It offers a unique combination of skill development, networking, career exploration, and work-life balance. By embracing the opportunities that temporary work presents and adopting effective strategies, you can create a dynamic and fulfilling career that adapts to your evolving goals and the changing employment landscape. Embrace the flexibility, stay proactive, and watch your career flourish in ways you never imagined.

THE BENEFITS OF USING TEMPORARY STAFFING SOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESSES

Benefits of Using Temporary Staffing with midwest Staffing

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, companies are constantly seeking ways to adapt and thrive. One strategy that has gained significant traction is the use of temporary staffing solutions. Temporary staffing, also known as contingent or contract staffing, offers a range of benefits that can help businesses navigate the challenges of the modern workforce. We’ll explore the key advantages of utilizing temporary staffing solutions for your business.

1. Flexibility and Agility

Temporary staffing solutions provide businesses with the flexibility to scale their workforce up or down as needed. This agility is particularly valuable in industries that experience fluctuations in demand or seasonal variations (Staffing Industry Analysts, 2022). By tapping into a pool of skilled temporary workers, companies can quickly respond to changes in the market and adjust their staffing levels accordingly, without the long-term commitment of permanent hires.

2. Access to Specialized Talent

Temporary staffing agencies have a vast network of skilled professionals across a wide range of industries and specializations. This allows businesses to access specialized expertise on an as-needed basis, without the burden of recruiting, hiring, and training permanent employees (Randstad, 2023). Whether you need a specialized Production Lead & Supervisor, a Customer Service Rep, or a Warehouse Forklift operator, temporary staffing solutions can provide the right talent at the right time.

3. Cost Savings

Utilizing temporary staffing solutions can lead to significant cost savings for businesses. By avoiding the expenses associated with full-time employees, such as benefits, payroll taxes, and overhead costs, companies can optimize their workforce expenses and allocate resources more efficiently (ManpowerGroup, 2022). Additionally, temporary staffing agencies often handle the administrative tasks, such as payroll and compliance (we do), further reducing the burden on the employer.

4. Reduced Hiring and Onboarding Costs

The process of hiring and onboarding permanent employees can be time-consuming and costly. Temporary staffing solutions eliminate the need for extensive recruitment efforts, background checks, and lengthy onboarding processes, as the staffing agency handles these tasks (Robert Half, 2023) (Midwest Staffing handles it all for you). This allows businesses to quickly and cost-effectively bring in the necessary talent to meet their immediate needs.

5. Risk Mitigation

Temporary staffing solutions can help businesses mitigate various risks, such as those associated with employee turnover, skills gaps, and compliance issues. By leveraging the expertise and resources of a staffing agency, companies can ensure that they have the right people in place to handle specific projects or tasks, without the long-term commitment of permanent hires (Adecco, 2022). This can be particularly beneficial for businesses navigating uncertain economic conditions or undergoing organizational changes.In conclusion, the benefits of using temporary staffing solutions for businesses are numerous and compelling. From increased flexibility and access to specialized talent to cost savings and risk mitigation, temporary staffing can be a strategic advantage in today’s dynamic business environment. By partnering with a reputable staffing agency, companies can unlock the power of a flexible, agile, and cost-effective workforce to drive their success.

Citations:

Adecco. (2022). The Benefits of Temporary Staffing for Businesses. Retrieved from https://www.adeccousa.com/employers/resources/the-benefits-of-temporary-staffing-for-businesses/ManpowerGroup. (2022).
The Benefits of Temporary Staffing. Retrieved from https://www.manpowergroup.com/workforce-insights/data-driven-workforce-insights/the-benefits-of-temporary-staffingRandstad. (2023).
The Benefits of Temporary Staffing for Businesses. Retrieved from https://www.randstadusa.com/workforce-insights/staffing-solutions/the-benefits-of-temporary-staffing-for-businesses/Robert Half. (2023).
The Advantages of Temporary Staffing for Businesses. Retrieved from https://www.roberthalf.com/blog/management-tips/the-advantages-of-temporary-staffing-for-businessesStaffing Industry Analysts. (2022).
The Benefits of Temporary Staffing for Businesses. Retrieved from https://www2.staffingindustry.com/site/Editorial/Daily-News/The-benefits-of-temporary-staffing-for-businesses-54524

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS FOR JOBSEEKERS

Your resume captured the employer’s attention and now it’s time to organize for the interview! Reviewing questions and preparing ahead of time enhances confidence on your big day! Don’t be alarmed with unexpected interview questions. Be prepared to give proficient and thought-out responses, highlighting skills required for the job opening.  Do allow room for creativity as you may be asked perplexed questions, and rehearse the questions below with others for constructive feedback. Much success on your interview!

ARE YOU READY FOR YOUR INTERVIEW? CONSIDER THESE QUESTIONS:

1.  What are your career goals this coming year?

Share career goals and the steps you’re taking to achieve them. Having long-term and short-term goals paints a professional picture of your dreams and aspirations. Companies like individuals who are motivated and goal oriented.

2. Did your previous employer need improvement in any area?

The idea is to identify potential problems, while offering positive solutions. This is a great opportunity to highlight leadership skills, as well as strategies implemented that have proven successful in the past.

3.  Can you describe a challenging scenario, and share how you handled it?

Discrepancies on the job happen, yet how we handle circumstances makes all the difference. Think outside the box and get creative when pondering different solutions. For instance, you can share of a scenario when you went beyond your job duties to assist a client who was upset gathering resources, making phone calls, and more. This scenario shows employee flexibility, dedication, and strong leadership skills.

4.  What are looking to gain from our company?

Rather than focusing on pay rate and employee benefits, consider other positive attributes the company offers like longevity and opportunities for career growth.

5.  What are your professional strengths?

The interviewer wants to know what you have to offer to the company. Why should they choose you over other job candidates? Highlight attributes you possess that pertain to the job position at hand. For example, if you are applying for a customer service role, mention your people skills and ability to be a team player. Creating a self-assessment list prior to the interview can also prove beneficial.

6.  What professional areas are you looking to improve?

My recommendation is to share attributes that can be tolerated by other colleagues. These should be traits that can be worked on over time. For example, becoming more proficient in another language, learning a new software program, or getting to know co-workers.

7.  Why are you leaving your current employer?

The company is curious as to why you chose to resign from your current position. Be honest about circumstances causing you to leave or seek for new employment opportunities.  

8.  Why are you applying for this position?

Why did you choose this company over other employment opportunities? This is a great time to express your passion and qualities that make you the perfect candidate for the job. Share features that make the company stand out from other employers. For example, mention the length of time the company has been in business, or the professional assistance you’ve received since day one.  

9.  Are you willing to relocate for work if needed?

It’s important to show flexibility, but also be realistic in your response. Share work accommodations that fit your schedule and current lifestyle. 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.

10. Do you have any questions for me? 

Be prepared to ask questions. This shows interest in part of the potential job candidate. This is also a good time to inquire on company benefits, scheduling, and job expectations.

TIPS TO SIMPLIFY RETIREMENT PLANNING

You’ve invested years into the workforce and are now considering retirement. What factors drive some people to retire sooner or later in life? Is there a specific age-range that’s best to retire? Planning for retirement is unique for each individual’s situation and goals. Optimal timing for retirement depends on the person’s needs, aspirations, and financial position. It’s important to maintain flexible and open to new possibilities when planning for retirement. 

THINKING OF RETIREMENT? CONSIDER THIS:

1. How many years have you been in the workforce? Social Security collects a portion of your employment income, accumulating funds for when ready to retire. Social Security provides detailed benefit information based on age, work history, and income. Applying for benefits is also possible on the Social Security website. According to AARP, the longer you wait to collect Social Security after age of 62 the greater the return. AARP comments further, “For each year you delay, your Social Security benefits will increase between 7 percent and 8 percent up to age 70, depending on your year of birth.”

2. Determine monthly income and monthly expenses. Jot down all sources of income and expenses for each month. This provides detailed information on financial obligations needed when considering retirement options.

3. Which sources of income will commence upon retiring and which will cease? List new sources of income such as Social Security, 401K’s or other retirement plans, savings, investments, and others. Also review income sources that will cease or decreases, and include updated financial figures to your retirement planning list.

4. It’s never too late to strategize for retirement. Regardless of age or work experience there are many options available. Seek assistance from a financial expert who can provide retirement options based on your goals and financial needs.

5. Working is still an option after retirement. Seeking employment after retiring is a choice for individuals who require extra income or enjoy working. There is a limit to the number of work hours allowed when receiving Social Security benefits. Consult with Social Security to make sure you’re keeping within their guidelines.

*All suggestions should be discussed with a professional who specializes in retirementment prior to implenting any ideas discussed in this article. This article is only intended for informational purposes.

REDUCE STRESS WITH SIMPLIFIED LEADERSHIP SKILLS

Contributions and benefits inspire some to acquire management positions, but effective leadership requires more than a job title. Roles and responsibilities in the workplace vary according to job industry and company needs. There are various levels and styles of leadership, but one common experience shared by many in management positions is stress.How can we minimize stress for smarter and simplified work performance? Is working to the point of exhaustion detrimental or essential for successful leadership? Let’s explore together!

Working long shifts and cutting on lunch breaks may seem like heroic acts for your team, but in reality you may be cheating out your potential and company success. According to the Statista – The Statistical Portal, workload and interpersonal relations are the main causes of occupational stress. Statista goes on to state, “More than one third of employees lose one hour or more per day in productivity, while almost one third miss between three and six days per year due to stress.” Eustress is a healthy form of stress that helps increase focus and productivity. Burnout on the other hand occurs when faced with numerous responsibilities, job expectations beyond our reach, issues with coworkers, multiple deadlines, and other factors leading to workplace stress. The good new is there are ways to work smarter and more simplified to help decrease stress and prevent burnout!

8-Stress-Reducing Tips to Prevent Burnout:

1. Take a break. Each day brings numerous demands and deadlines, but it’s crucial to take at least a 30-minute break when working long hours. Employers offer different break schedules depending on the number of hours worked each day. Use break times to disconnect from work-related activities. This provides an opportunity to step away from stressors, recharging the mind with more creativity and focus.

2. Don’t skip on meals. The brain requires glucose (sugar) for optimal concentration and mental performance. Skipping on meals can influence energy levels, concentration, and work performance as well as your overall health.

3. Get a 5 min breather. Some days can be more challenging than others. If you are having a stressful workday, take 5 minutes to breathe and calm yourself down. Ask your employer if you can take 5 minutes of breathing space. Something as simple as stepping outside for 5 minutes can make a difference in decreasing stress levels.

4. Plan your day in advance. Unexpected situations occur, yet we can establish workflow consistency by planning activities and tasks ahead of time. For instance, make a list of projects and responsibilities requiring top priority and accomplish these early during the day, listing less important tasks for the end of your workday. Some people also find it productive to schedule significant tasks during times of the day when his or her energy levels are at its peak. This allows for more proficient work and also contributes to effective time management.

5. Simplify your workload. Breakdown projects into manageable tasks to be accomplished throughout the workday, this can decrease stress when faced with multiple deadlines. Rather than focusing on the time crunch, gear your attention to a few tasks that must be completed on a timely fashion.

6. Delegate responsibilities. Allow other employees to assist you as much as possible. Sharing responsibilities with coworkers decreases workload and promotes teamwork and collaboration.

7. Communicate needs to higher authorities. If you’ve tried all the suggestions listed above and others, yet still feel overwhelmed with job responsibilities it may be time to discuss your concerns with a higher authority. Your boss can provide additional suggestions and strategies that can prove beneficial.

8. Allow for introspection and reflection. Take time to review your work habits, reflecting on areas that require improvement and change. This is not a time to judge yourself, but rather an opportunity for growth and mastering leadership skills. Reflection shares light into job situations and strategies to promote stress-reduction in the workplace.

TIPS TO INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY IN THE WORKPLACE

Job responsibilities and time constraints in the workplace calls attention to the importance of productivity. This is essential for individuals in professional roles were company success is co-dependent on leadership performance and accountability. Having more time to accomplish tasks doesn’t necessarily yield better results. On the other hand, using allotted time efficiently and effectively can bring about even greater positive outcomes.

LEADERSHIP TIPS TO INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY IN THE WORKPLACE

1. Focus on one project at a time. It’s difficult to concentrate on any given assignment when your attention is split on numerous tasks. Rather than multitasking, thoroughly complete one project before engaging in another.

2. Schedule times for correspondence. Not all messages and calls need immediate attention. Wait for an opportune time to address correspondence, and then address each message and phone call in order of importance. Being quick to respond to incoming emails and calls can disrupt creativity and workflow.   

3. Take care of important jobs first. It’s easy to procrastinate least enjoyable assignments or those requiring great effort. As the day evolves these projects seem all the more dreadful when a time crunch is in place. Instead, place important tasks on the top of your daily to-do list.  

4. Do what can be done today. If taking care of an assignment today alleviates tomorrows workload, then it’s best to finish the same day. Do take into consideration other work responsibilities and job roles. Don’t overload yourself to the point of exhaustion, which can potential decrease productivity the following day. Use discretion when considering additional assignments.

5. Take breaks. Skipping breaks and lunch time may seem like the best way to get the most out of your workday. Yet, depleting your body of nutrition and rest can have negative impacts on work performance and health. Take a breather from time-to-time throughout the day. Recharging your mind and body promotes creativity and productivity.

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!

HOW TO BECOME A MORNING PERSON

Throughout the day we experience fluctuating periods of increased alertness and sleepiness. For some individuals creativity and mental focus intensifies in the early morning, while others are more proficient in the evening. A person’s internal biological clock or circadian rhythm influences periods of wakefulness at various times of the day. Working against one’s internal biological clock can be challenging, particularly for employees who are most productive in the evening and hold daytime positions. Fortunately implementing a few strategies can yield positive results when seeking to increase morning productivity.

The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) comments further on the role of internal circadian rhythm and wakefulness:

The circadian rhythm dips and rises at different times of the day, so adults’ strongest sleep drive generally occurs between 2:00-4:00 am and in the afternoon between 1:00-3:00 pm, although there is some variation depending on whether you are a “morning person” or “evening person.”

Having adequate sleep each night is a good starting point to increase daytime energy. Allow a period of adjustment as your body adapts to a new sleep schedule. Also, avoid long naps even if the previous evening you slept fewer hours than desired. Limiting hour-long naps contributes to better sleep and increased restfulness at night. As noted by the NSF, “The sleepiness we experience during these circadian dips will be less intense if we have had sufficient sleep, and more intense when we are sleep deprived.” Recommended sleep hours vary depending on the individual’s age, lifestyle, and health needs. In general, adults should get an average of 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

TIPS FOR ADJUSTING YOUR BIOLOGICAL CLOCK:

1. Get a good night’s rest and limit hour-long naps during the day.

2. Adhere to an exercise routine.

3. Limit consumption of caffeinated foods and beverages in the later afternoon and during the evening.

4. Develop a sleep schedule that’s suitable for your lifestyle and health needs.

5. Monitor times of the day when you are most alert and plan your workday accordingly. If possible, plan important work projects during times of the day when energy spikes. On the other hand, tedious tasks can be scheduled when feeling sluggish, as they tend to require little if any mental exertion.

6. Don’t run on empty. Be sure to have a healthy breakfast each morning before heading to work.

7. Incorporate a motivational boost. Mediation, spiritual practice, or preferred activity can be introduced to bring enjoyment to the start of your day.