Effective Communication
Part II – 5 Strategies to Better Communication Skills When asked, “Are you a good listener?” most people fire off a quick, “Yes, of course.” What many fail to realize, however, is that hearing is only half the battle. Maybe even less than that. Listening well includes not only grasping the words but understanding the underlying messages as well. And some folks still don’t get that effective communication is every bit as much—if not more—about listening than talking. Admitting the need for a bit of improvement in the communication department is the first step toward becoming a better communicator. When…
Building Your Career
In every building, there is more than one way to reach the top floor. It’s the same for your career – there are multiple ways to build your career and climb the company ladder. Some ladders, however, are more stable and some methods are more effective than others. Your job isn’t just a place to show up five or six days a week for eight hours. Hopefully, it’s where you go to expand your boundaries, build your skills, learn new skills, and create a satisfying career – all while earning an income and providing for you and yours. The beginning…
Overqualified – The Backhanded Compliment
“I’m sorry, you’re a great candidate, but . . . We can’t make an offer because you’re too good – you’re overqualified.” Is that a compliment? Or an insult? Does it matter? The job you wanted and knew you could do well went to someone else, and you’re still looking. Frustration. Discouragement. Defeat. Wait. Don’t give up yet. It’s time to “take the bull by the horns” and win the job you want. Follow these ten steps and turn your “overqualified” label into a “welcome aboard.” 1. Understand the potential employer’s perspective. The truth is, they would love to hire…
Growing a Career in Manufacturing: Moving Forward
Part Two, Moving Forward (Read Part I – Developing a Professional Resume here.) So you have reached your short-term goals with your position in manufacturing. You feel you are ready for more, but how do you move forward? Here are 21 strategies that can work for anyone. A combination of them will provide your best footing for your next career step. Always do your best at whatever you do. Take less desirable assignments. Get exposure to various departments and jobs, especially ones on your path. Make a lateral move it if gives exposure and builds relationships. Develop mentoring relationships. Practice…
Growing a Career in Manufacturing: Developing a Professional Resume
Setting your sights on a career path in manufacturing? You must have lots of questions. How do you find the right position? How do you move up the ladder once you gain experience? How can you broaden your skill set? Exciting questions, yes . . . and maybe a little anxiety-provoking. Things aren’t so overwhelming if you start at the beginning – with the resume process. Build the right resume for you Foundations are critical. Do this groundwork at the beginning, and you can build on it as your career grows. The process is not difficult, but it does require…
Answering the Challenges Businesses Face: Part Two
Picture Monday morning and Joe Employee fails to show up for work…again. Moreover, he doesn’t call to explain his absence. Worst, you just blew a major customer’s trust since “missing Joe” put a significant crimp in production. Why do chronic “no shows” and “no calls” occur? The variety of reasons range from legitimate to loco. But you can manage that spectrum if you are prepared. First, prepare a comprehensive policy that is provided in writing to every employee which covers every form of absenteeism: time-off requests, sick time, family emergencies, unexpected incidents or lateness (like a car accident), military activities,…