Team Building

The economy is questionable; buyers are holding off, you survived layoffs….. now what? Now that your company dynamic is a bit different, it’s a good time to focus on teamwork. Working in an office requires depending on others to get things done. Even the most independent positions sometimes need to work with others; being on a team means being inter-dependent and being able to trust others. Having an efficient team is the best way to keep the company on track and to ensure your position. Here are basics on how to be a good “team member”:

You must be independent first. If you cannot function well on your own, an office team can turn into an outlet for all your flaws. An independent person knows what makes him or her tick and has established values and ethics. These values can then be brought to any team and become part of the contributing process.

The team is accountable to each other.

Someone has to lead and it requires guidelines. If one member is not committed to the plan and the team, nothing will work.

The leader may lead the team but must allow the individuals on the team to flourish and grow. Teams can be about change and that change can be a great strength. When various types of people are on a team, the abundance of creativity can be a major bonus.

Teams can be enjoyable and fun, but no one will know that unless team members relax and lighten up. Having a goal doesn’t mean you need to put unneeded pressure on people to meet a deadline.

Have respect for each other. Everyone works differently and has their own system for getting things done. Cooperate with those around you better by understanding why they do the things they do. Be respectful and don’t push your ideas on others.

Individual’s actions affect the group. If you are not getting your share done, you set everyone behind. Keep the team goal in mind and work towards it as efficiently as possible.

Have caution. Not everyone is a team player. People who are loners need to work alone. If they can produce results on their own, let them. Forcing someone to be on a team will only stall any progress

Surviving Layoffs

With the slowing market these days, there is much talk and fear about possible layoffs. When you see department “consolidations” and “reorganizing” going on all around you, chances are you or some of your coworkers might be let go. Here are some ways to survive if you suffer a layoff.

• Accept the fact that it happened to you. Most likely you don’t expect a layoff notice. Layoffs are not personal. The sooner you move on, the better.
• Negotiate the best possible severance package that you can.
• Don’t burn bridges. You may need them as a reference.
• Update your resume. Tailor it towards the job you are going for.
• Ask your superior for a recommendation letter. Have them explain that the layoff was not a result of your job performance.
• Start searching for a new job right away. Finding a new job is not always easy and could take up to 6 months. Be prepared for some setbacks.
• Contact your references. Let them know you’re back in the job market and counting on them.
• Stay positive. It’s easier said than done but keeping a positive attitude will help the situation.

If you are lucky and were not laid off, show leadership. You should still act the same: do your job and keep doing it as well as you can.

Pick Up THE PHONE!

I am hearing a lot these days, “No one will call me back.” The internet has become the go-to place for recruiting and hiring. The net is great, it makes things easy, but the “people part” sometimes gets forgotten. It’s easy to avoid people with email. So while you are searching for a job – pick up the phone and follow up. Yes, email is great but we are finding that those who spend more time on the phone creating relationships with people are finding jobs faster.  Pick up the phone and use those great communication skills you have developed over the years.

Adapting • No fudging • Ethics Anyone?

Team Building • Surviving Layoffs

Truck Driver • Economy Needs you • Grumpy.

Find a Fantastic Addition To Your Team • Quit Paying Thousands.

What Happened to Thanksgiving?• Travel Tips

How to make a job offer that’s accepted • Courtesy

Team Building with Clients • What’s in a handshake?

Hiring Do’s • Who’s interviewing who? • The Counter Offer

How We Hire • Problem solving • “Haunted” Holiday