Employers and job seekers alike might be wondering, how long does a pre-employment background check take? Let’s take a look.

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Resume Tips From a Professional Recruiter

If you are thinking about a job change, consider some resume tips from a professional recruiter. Putting yourself out there on the job market can be challenging. It requires patience, determination, and some humility. Submitting job applications can often put you in a vulnerable place, and no one likes rejection. So there is little point in going about something as hard as a job search ill-prepared. How, one may ask, should someone prepare for a job search? The answer should be at the forefront of your mind, not only during job searches but in your professional career too. A quality resume is powerful. When organized well and executed correctly, a resume can make a job search easy. If a resume is constructed poorly, however, it can be to your detriment. With recruiting and hiring almost exclusively online nowadays, maximizing your digital resume is more important than ever. This article will go over some resume tips that will help you stand out to recruiters.

 

Basic Resume Advice

A good resume is not easy to come by. Too many people just slap their work experience into a word document and call it good. Not surprisingly, that is a waste of time. So much more is needed to show off your achievements and skills. There are reasons that simply listing skills and work experience however you please isn’t efficient. When you submit a job application, your resume is going to be one of the first things a recruiter will see. Recruiters are usually trained to look for specific things in a resume. If what they are looking for isn’t found quickly, there is a chance your application could be discarded. Of course, there are some basic rules to follow when putting together a resume that will help you get noticed. Listed below are some helpful resume tips from a professional recruiter:

 

Watch the Format

Keep your resume looking nice. It shows professionalism, attention to detail, and that you are interested in working. A polished format will help with the overall look of the resume.. Remember to keep formatting clean-looking, fonts and font sizes legible, and spacing consistent. You can inject personality with splashes of color or unusual headings. Don’t get too carried away though, and don’t include a head shot, or else it might start to look too unprofessional. Consider looking into templates if you need help. Always keep it to one page. Unless you are applying to a big-time executive position, don’t let any information run onto a second page.

 

Brag and Boast

If you only have one take-away from this article on resume advice, remember this: your resume is your highlight-reel. It is a ticket to brag about your accomplishments and your skills. Don’t be shy! Mention job titles, awards, honors, and any other kind of things you feel deserve mentioning. Of course, try to keep it relevant and keep it honest. Don’t exaggerate to make yourself look good. Honesty goes a long way, but recruiters really want to see what you can do.

 

Limit Content if Necessary

While you should brag about your accomplishments, it is not necessary to list everything you have ever done. Putting down all the jobs you have had since high school will only take up precious space. Instead, consider what is most relevant and what will really help get you the job you want. It is important to limit some content to make way for really important information. The important information will vary depending on the job, so it will require some judgment calls on your part.

 

Edit Vigorously

Among all the resume tips from a professional recruiter, this may be one of the most important. Pretend that your resume is an editing assignment for grammar class. A great deal of effort should go into checking grammar, spelling, tense, and pronouns. Some recruiters may immediately discard a resume if they find spelling or grammar errors. A resume free of spelling and grammar errors shows attention to detail and will give you a good advantage. So break out the dictionary and give yourself a refresher on the Oxford comma.

 

What is a Recruiter, and How Can You Stand Out to Them?

What is a recruiter, what do they do, and how can you impress them? Picture a college sports team. They send recruiters around the country to scout out talent and recruit athletes that will fit well in the organization. When a good candidate is found, they will try to get their attention and convince them to join their organization.

It’s an interesting reversal. Athletic recruiters try to get candidates’ attention while corporate and agency recruiters’ attention is often sought by candidates. So it is your duty, as a job-seeker, to capture the attention of a recruiter. Of course, some may reach out to you through job search apps. You may need to decide if they are worth speaking with. How do you catch the attention of the good recruiters? It helps to know what their job is. They go through many resumes and applications, sometimes dozens at a time. They need to make sure an applicant is qualified and is a good fit for the position and company. They need to be careful about who they select and who they spend time getting to know, as they have to vouch for you when they bring your file to a hiring manager. Thus, it is not their job to do you any favors. So to stand out to a recruiter, you need to make their job easier. Make yourself worth recommending. Project a confident and professional tone. Make sure your writing is free of errors and that your resume is relevant to the position. If you help the recruiter, you are sure to stand out. And of course, unless directed otherwise, a cover letter never hurts.

 

How to Send a Resume to a Recruiter

Personalization is the name of the game when it comes to sending a resume to a recruiter. Remember that you want to stand out while also making the recruiter’s job easier. By emailing your resume and cover letter directly to the recruiter, you are sure to stand out. Following the tips previously mentioned will also help with standing out. Keep the body of the email short and professional and avoid cliches. Include a strong subject line. You can usually find a good email on the company website. If an email to a recruiter or hiring manager can’t be found, you can usually find a generic email. Just include in the body or the subject something regarding the concerned department.

 

A Quality Resume is Key

Taking the time to polish your resume might very well land you that job. Leaving it in a poor state, however qualified you may be, may cost you the job. A lot of business is done online now, and recruiting is no exception. Because of that fact, resume construction is everything. It tells a recruiter who you are and what you are capable of. It is their only reference of what kind of person and worker you are. Use these resume tips from a professional recruiter and build your resume to make it represent you properly. If you feel your resume is ready, submit it here to be considered for any openings you may be qualified for in your general location. It may be nerve-racking, but adequate preparation will lend great confidence.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”75px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1585078267198{background-image: url(https://brightwingbdev.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/yellow-rectangle-scaled.jpg?id=27545) !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1639428840598{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”]

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The Biggest Job Search Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Job hunting is a stressful time. We have all been there: in the hunt for a new job and completely bungling it due to the stress and inexperience. Many of us only change jobs a few times in our lifetime, and so much can change in between each job search. We will tell you the biggest job search mistakes and how to fix them. Trust the talent experts at Brightwing to help you avoid the biggest job search mistakes. 

 

The Biggest Job Search Mistakes and How to Fix Them

To prepare you for your next job search, the talent experts at Brightwing have compiled this list of the biggest job search mistakes — and how you can fix each one. 

 

Using the “Best Job Search Apps” 

Many job seekers rely entirely on job board websites like LinkedIn and Indeed. While there is nothing wrong with using these resources, especially as a starting-off point for your job search, there are better ways of finding the right job for you. Even the best job search apps are just that: apps. Apps cannot compare with people. 

A job recruiter gets to know you in a way that an app or website never can. Plus, these apps are full of thousands of jobs. It is virtually impossible to narrow it down to the one job that is a great fit for you. It is extremely unproductive to sit and scroll through jobs for hours on end, especially if you are still working a job while undergoing your hunt for your next one. 

 

Not Applying Due to Job Search Requirements

Many applicants don’t apply to jobs unless they meet 100% of the requirements laid out in the job listing. Here is a little secret: you don’t have to meet all the job requirements in order to apply. Men tend to apply for jobs when they only meet 60% of the qualifications, but many women tend only to apply if they meet 100% of the listed requirements. Don’t be afraid to apply for that job if you only have two years of experience instead of three, or your degree isn’t the same that is specified. 

 

Lying About Your Skills

Now, just because you don’t meet the job search requirements doesn’t mean you should lie to meet them. Instead, explain to the company why you are still a fabulous fit for their position, and demonstrate your ability to learn new skills that would help you excel. Never, ever lie in order to land a job

 

Relying On Outdated Job Search Strategies 

If it has been five, ten, fifteen years (or more!) since you have last been on the job hunt, the tactics for securing your next position have most likely changed. Make sure to do your research on the best job search tips, or even better, work with a recruiter who knows the latest strategies for landing the next position in your dream career. 

 

Underestimating Your Worth 

Even when the job market is tough, never underestimate your own worth and potential. All too often, job seekers accept the first offer they receive. Make sure you know how much your individual skills and experience are worth. A recruiter can help you find positions that you might not even realize you are qualified for! 

Not Working With a Recruiter

Especially if you work in a specialized industry like finance, IT, or engineering, it is best to work with a recruiter to find the right job for you. These types of companies typically work with an agency like Brightwing to fill their positions, and this will give you a leg up during your search. 

 

The Best Job Search Tips

As talent experts, we know a thing or two about the job search. These are the best job search tips from the professionals: 

 

Work With a Recruiting Agency

Searching for your next full-time job can oftentimes feel, well, like a full-time job. And at Brightwing, it is our full-time job: to help you find the right role, team, and company. That is what makes working with a recruiting company worthwhile. Working with Brightwing takes all the stress out of the job hunt. 

 

Know What You Want

Before you begin your job hunt, make sure you know what you are looking for in your next role and workplace. What type of position are you looking for? What is your ideal salary? Do you want to take on more responsibility at your next job? What type of company culture do you prefer? Knowing the answers to all of these questions can help your recruiter find the best fit for you. 

 

Don’t Limit Yourself to Online Applications

All too often, job seekers apply for jobs online, and never hear back — even if they are ideal for the position. Online applications have a way of getting lost in the shuffle. Many employers rely on referrals and recruiting agencies to fill jobs, which means your resume might not even garner a glance. When you work with a talent expert, they will advocate for you for the position that they know you are right for. 

 

Be Prepared

If you want to ace your next job interview, be prepared. The number one mistake that job seekers make during the recruitment process is under preparing for their interviews. Make sure to do your research into the company you are interviewing with, and the interviewer if possible, and to show up prepared with examples of your work on hand. Employers not only want to hear about you and your experience, but they also want to know what you like about their company, why you want to work for them, and why you will be a great fit. 

Enjoy the Job Search and Avoid Mistakes with Brightwing

Now, you know the biggest job search mistakes and how to fix them. If you want to find the right job and avoid making any mistakes in the process, consider working with Brightwing Talent Experts. Our company was recently named Great Recruiters Certified for the second consecutive year in recognition of creating a top-ranked candidate experience. Contact us today so we can get to know you better.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”75px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1585078267198{background-image: url(https://brightwingbdev.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/yellow-rectangle-scaled.jpg?id=27545) !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1639428840598{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”]

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Indeed might be able to help you find your next gig, especially in the short term. But a staffing service is the answer for a new careeer.

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Does Indeed Really Work to Find Jobs?

Does Indeed really work to find jobs? Indeed might be able to help you find your next gig, especially in the short term. But if you are looking to take the next step in your career that is really right for you, or find the perfect person to fill an opening for a position at your company, a staffing service is the answer. Learn more about Indeed, how Indeed works, and if Indeed really works to find jobs. 

 

Does Indeed Really Work to Find Jobs?

There is no denying that Indeed is loaded with job openings. If you are looking for a new job, you have probably considered turning to Indeed. Indeed has so many jobs, in fact, that it will take you forever to search through all the jobs on their site, trying to find the perfect fit for you. And it is important to find a job you love. After all, it has been estimated that the average person spends one-third of their life at work. That’s approximately 90,000 hours at work in your lifetime

 

What is Indeed? 

You have probably heard of Indeed. Indeed is basically a no-frills search engine for jobs. It is an employment website that features job listings. In fact, Indeed is the number one job site in the world. It is a free service for job seekers and allows you to upload a resume, create job alert emails, search for and save jobs, and apply to them directly. 

 

How Does Indeed Work? 

Indeed is populated by employers who post jobs on the platform. The website also aggregates job listings from other places, like company websites, recruiting agencies, other job boards, and newspapers and magazines. Just like any other website, there are pros and cons to using Indeed to find your next job. 

 

Pros of Using Indeed to Find Your Next Job

There is one main pro to using Indeed to find your next gig: 

 

Tons of Jobs 

The number one positive thing about Indeed is that it is filled with jobs. There are so many options on Indeed: perhaps even too many. 

 

Cons of Using Indeed to Find Your Next Job 

There are also several cons to using Indeed for your job hunt: 

 

Too Many Jobs 

While the number of jobs on Indeed can be an advantage for job hunters, it can also be a disadvantage. There are so many jobs on the search engine that it can be difficult to look through them all, and you might never end up connecting with your dream job. For example, a recent search for IT jobs in Detroit, Michigan returned more than 4,600 openings. Especially if you are already employed, you probably don’t have the time to cull through all the listings. Searching for a new job can be a full-time job in and of itself! Many job searches last eight weeks or longer

 

Difficult to Get Noticed 

Indeed has more than 250 million unique visitors per month. That’s a lot of competition! There are so many people on Indeed applying for jobs that it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd and get chosen for the next step in the hiring process. 

 

Not All Employers Post on Indeed

Your dream employer might be hiring, but you might never see the job listing on Indeed. Not every employer uses search engines like Indeed to find their next hires. Many companies rely on employee referrals or the services of staffing agencies like Brightwing to help fill open positions with the right person for the job. 

 

Indeed for Employers

Many employers are more desperate than ever to fill jobs following the great resignation and a major talent shortage, which might mean turning to job search engines like Indeed. If you are an employer looking for simply anyone to fill a position, then Indeed is a great place to post your job. 

But if you are picky about who you hire and you want to find the right person for the opening at your company, then it is imperative that you turn to a staffing agency. Working with a recruiting company is a worthwhile investment for businesses. 

No more sifting through resumes endlessly: if you want to fill a job faster (but still fill it with the right person), a staffing agency like Brightwing is the answer. 

 

Indeed vs. Staffing Agencies

A staffing agency (or staffing service) is a company that specializes in making connections between hiring managers and job candidates. Staffing services, like our own at Brightwing, are much more personalized. Rather than randomly perusing thousands of resumes (if you’re an employer) or job openings (if you’re a job seeker), you can work with a talent expert who really takes the time to get to know you. 

When you work with a staffing agency like Brightwing, we help you find purpose and success. Unlike a staffing service, Indeed does not understand your individual career path and can’t help you determine what a good long-term career move is for you. If you want to look for a new job successfully, partner with a talent expert who really cares about finding the right fit for you. 

 

Why a Staffing Service is Superior to Indeed

Staffing services are superior to websites like Indeed, particularly if you work in a specialized industry like IT, engineering, financing, and accounting. Whether you are an employer looking to fill a position, or a job seeker looking to make the next step in their career, Brightwing Talent Experts matches the right people with the right opportunities. 

Consider Using Brightwing to Find Your Next Job

While websites like Indeed and LinkedIn might be able to help you find a job, a staffing service like Brightwing can help you find THE job. When you use Indeed, you might find your next job. But it might not be the right fit, and then you will simply end up back on the Indeed website, looking for yet another job. Indeed is all about getting a job right now. Brightwing is for helping you build your career. [/vc_column_text][vc_separator][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”75px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1585078267198{background-image: url(https://brightwingbdev.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/yellow-rectangle-scaled.jpg?id=27545) !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1639428840598{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”]

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Do you need to fill positions in your automotive supplier business? Do you want to work for an automotive supplier, but don’t know where to begin? We’ve got everything you need to know to uplevel your hiring or make some money in this article!

There is fierce competition for qualified employees across all industries. Automotive manufacturers are burdened by this fact. Unfortunately, for business owners, now hiring signs and paper ads – or even job postings on job boards – aren’t as effective as they used to be. On the flip side, for jobseekers, this industry is booming with great jobs of all ranges.

 

Finding and Retaining Help Is Easier if You Follow These Four Strategies:

 

1. Set the vision and prepare for change

To understand how the workforce is changing and what the consequences may be, automakers should start by gathering and analyzing data from their own employees. Survey them to understand where their expectations, ambitions, and satisfaction levels stand. Map out the way teams (both formal and informal) work together by analyzing digital communication trails. Work with leaders at all levels to understand their perspectives on the future and catalog anticipated needs. Next, consider analyzing the impact of different outside trends on the workforce – not just those related to the digital economy, but those related to demographic, organizational, and environmental aspects as well.

With all these analyses in tow, automotive companies can anticipate and prepare for some of the major changes ahead. This leaves room to project how many and which kinds of workers you’ll need to add to your headcount or re-train as your company grows. Staffing services are often a smart strategic option to consider when approaching the question of specialized talent, Brightwing is here for you!

2. Determine and design workforce strategies

Great ambitions propel people to action, but automotive companies must understand the challenges ahead. To respond to these trends, organizations must design workforce strategies to identify the best talent pools, analyze how to engage them, and then build a compelling employee brand and value proposition.

Finally, they must leverage partners and technology to gain seamless access to relevant talent pools, expanding the availability of critical skill sets and enabling a more agile organization. Bosch, for instance, established a database to keep track of employees’ skills and knowledge, which can be used for future projects.

3. Deliver the transformation

In order to drive transformation, the employees of a company must be behind it. However, that will only be accomplished if the company leaders are willing to adopt the change and set the example. Automakers will need to implement the roadmap by creating a transformation management office; they will need to train their employees on the new technology platforms and establish effective communication strategies.

 

Signs Of The Best Automotive Companies To Work For

If you are an automotive company owner looking to increase employee retention or if you are an automotive job seeker looking for a job, it is important to consider what makes a company worth working for. 

Competitive Compensation

All workers are looking for fair pay. It is necessary to support yourself and your loved ones. But how do you know that your pay is competitive? It is important to study salary surveys online to make sure you’re not getting cheated out of your well-deserved pay. You can also avoid being taken advantage of by going through a recruiter. Recruiters have insider knowledge of how the jobs they’re filling should be compensated. Thus, they will get you a competitive rate. 

Company Culture

Great companies support and encourage their employees, and their employees show their appreciation by working hard. You need to be aware of what to look for during interviews. Ask about company culture and take note of how the hiring manager talks about employees. Do they use positive or negative language? Are they able to talk about the importance of their team? Do they have an understanding of the needs of their team members and are they openly looking for solutions?

Communication

Communication is key in any work environment. Make sure that the hiring manager is not only a good communicator themselves, but that you ask them about the communication standards within the company. They should be able to clearly and efficiently discuss the methods used to keep employees clued into the information they need. If they are unprepared to communicate this in an interview, they are likely unprepared to properly communicate with their workforce. 

Innovation & Development

Innovation and development are important on two fronts. First of all, you want to work for a company that is using the best practices for their line of work. This includes innovation strategies, safety, and the development of their products. 

Meanwhile, it is equally crucial that the company has your development in mind. You don’t want to join a company just to feel stuck in your position. Many employees have a growth mindset and need a company willing to help them achieve that growth. Ask about promotion opportunities within the company and whether they look internally when hiring for other positions.

 

 

Automotive Jobs Near Me

No technician, engineer, operations professional, manager, or leader should be waiting for jobs to come to them. You must hustle if you want to succeed. 

You’re more likely to get a job if you show employers that you’re a hard worker with a solid education and job training. The most important thing is to remember that job hunting is a journey, so don’t get discouraged. Staffing is a good option to find consistent jobs in the automotive field!

We hope this article has given you great insight into everything from hiring to being hired in the automotive supplier industry. In order to find the perfect business-employee relationship, there are many things to consider. Our team, Brightwing Staffing, is dedicated to helping you! Our customer satisfaction is our top priority. The Brightwing team is confident that if you implement all the tactics outlined in this article, you will succeed in your endeavor regardless of where you are!

Whether you’re looking for your first job or are searching for a new one, learning the different types of interviews and how to prepare for them can help you land a desired position. There is often competition for a position, and often only 20% of candidates are offered an interview. With these odds, it never hurts to brush up on the types of interviews and how to ace them. 

Types of Interviews

Interviews are used throughout the different stages of the hiring process, from initial screening to making a final decision. Each type of interview is designed to glean specific information, see how candidates react in scenarios, or test candidates in certain ways. Even though interviews can often be separated into types, they can also overlap. For example, you may be presented with a problem-solving question during your traditional one-on-one interview. 

Types of Job Interviews 

Traditional Interview

The traditional one-on-one interview is still the most common type of interview. Usually, these interviews are conducted by a hiring manager or an HR representative. They last for 30 minutes to an hour and a half. Traditional interviews often have a balance of questions. They are aimed to get to know you personally, to learn about your behavior, and to test some problem-solving. These can be done in person, though many companies are opting for Zoom interviews nowadays. This is both to protect those post-pandemic, as well as to provide more convenient scheduling for all parties. 

Phone Interview

Phone interviews are for candidates who have something appealing on their resume, but are still being screened for a future interview. These interviews are often 15 to 20 minutes. They allow recruiters to confirm a candidate’s interest and availability in a position. Additionally, they can identify salary requirements. Plus, it is a good way to see if the candidate demonstrates an overall good first impression. 

Project or Case Interview

A project or case interview is concerned with testing a candidate’s technical skills. Usually, the candidate is assigned a task or project with a deadline. This is used to demonstrate their skill and how they perform on a task under pressure. Sometimes, the assignments are purposefully difficult, making it important to demonstrate a well-thought-out thinking process. 

Group Interview

Group interviews are when multiple candidates are brought in for an interview at the same time. These interviews help hirers find an ideal candidate quickly and are structured like a group conversation. These interviews demonstrate how candidates act in a group environment and how they treat their colleagues in a high-stakes situation. 

Panel Interview

Panel interviews are when multiple staff members, usually around 3-5, interview an individual candidate at the same time. These interviews are more common in highly-structured hiring processes or when a search committee is being used to find an ideal candidate. Each member of the panel has their own agenda and will ask different questions. While it can feel overwhelming, do your best to directly answer one question at a time and then try to connect it to the interests or perspectives of the other panelists. 

Mealtime Interview

Mealtime interviews are more common in positions that require meetings with clients (such as sales) or frequent outings and connecting with colleagues. The interviewer will meet the candidate over lunch, usually to get to know them as a person and to examine their social skills. Watching your table manners is critical in a mealtime interview. 

How to Prepare for a Job Interview

Research the Company

During the interview, you may be presented with questions related to a company, such as a favorite product or service, or how you are a good fit for company values. To prepare for these questions, it is important to understand the company you are interviewing with. Learn about their competitors and their ideals. If possible, it’s also a good idea to research your interviewer(s) to find something in their background you can connect with.

Prepare Your Answers

While each company will have its own specific questions, there are common interview questions that will pop up frequently during your job search. While you don’t have to answer any single one of these questions, look through common questions lists and think of your answers. They will help you sound prepared and confident in your interview. 

You can also prepare defense answers for your weaknesses or answers that ease the interviewer’s doubts about you. For example, if you know you’re a dedicated employee that sometimes works hard or extra hours, your interviewer might be concerned if burnout will affect your performance. You can ease the interviewer’s concerns if you counter with how you counter burnout

Practice, Practice, Practice 

Even if you have your interview answers thought out, nothing beats practicing saying them out loud. This can help you get the phrasing right to sound articulate. Not to mention, it can prevent you from being paralyzed when your thoughts are racing under the pressure of an interview. 

Make Sure Your Space and Technology Are Ready 

For phone and video interviews, make sure that you will not be disturbed, a glass of water is ready, and that your technology works. Especially for video interviews, make sure you have a strong internet connection and that your speakers and microphone are functioning. 

Speak Up About Your Selling Points

Often, interviewers won’t ask the exact questions you might want them to. If there’s something you especially want the interviewer to know, such as a specific experience or skill, it is your responsibility to bring it up during the conversation. When you’re elaborating on an experience, make sure you share the situation, the task, your actions, and the results. In group interviews, it is especially important to speak up without dominating the conversation. 

Have Some Questions for the Interviewer

Having questions for your interviewer demonstrates your interest in the company and is also a great chance for you to learn more about the company, its workplace culture, and its values. Not having prepared your own questions can paint you as disinterested and less proactive. 

Getting the Interview

If you’re worried about getting interviews to begin with, recruiting companies are the way to go. Here at Brightwing, we pride ourselves on matching employees with the right companies. We can aid your process of getting interviews so that you can move forward and nail them with these tips and advice tailored to your situation. 

decide to relocate for a job

 

How to Decide Whether to Relocate for a Job

Half of your weekday waking hours are spent at work. Your feelings about your daily tasks, accomplishments, colleagues, and managers reverberate through all the other parts of your life, too.

What happens when you’re presented with the opportunity to make a big change? What would you decide if you got an offer to relocate for a job?

 

In our recent Brightwing Talent Insights Survey, over half of our survey respondents said they would be open to relocating for the right opportunity.

 

Meanwhile 14% of people simply aren’t sure if they’d be open to relocating, and 32% are decidedly happy to stay right where they are.

 

Relocating could widen your horizons and get you closer to your career goals or else it could be a shortsighted maneuver in need of hasty reversing.

 

How do you know if it’ll be worth it? Here’s are three considerations that will help you make the decision.

 

 

1. Scope out the bigger picture.

 

How does the move fit with your career ambitions and the market?

 

“Twenty-two percent of people who relocated for work did so for promotions, while 51 percent cited “personal career development,” according to a recent IMPACT Group survey of more than 3,000 workers.” (source)

 

If more pay ranks high on your list of reasons to relocate, consider how far your salary will go in the new market. For the short term, take a look at your relocation budget (and to what extent the new gig will cover expenses). For the long term, take into account the cost of living and professional growth prospects for your industry in the area.

 

Career paths are not linear. What can you gain from this opportunity that you couldn’t get anywhere else? What doors would this move open for you?

 

 

2. Dive into the details.

Will the new job and location make you happier?

 

See what you can predict about your work life. “Company culture” is of course a significant factor, but who you work with and how you work with them day-in and day-out will make a bigger impact.

 

People matter. 75% of people quit not their “jobs,” but their bosses.

 

How much do you know about your prospective new manager? Your new team? Your team’s mission and goals?

 

When your boss, team, and purpose align with you and your values, you’re far likelier to be happier.

 

 

3. Consider the ripple effect.

What kind of returns will you see on happiness?

 

Happy employees tend to be healthier and about 12% more productive. On the flip side, workplace stress has been linked to accidents, disease, and death.

 

Beyond work, what pressures will you face away from your established professional and personal networks? If you have a family, what does moving mean for your spouse’s career? For your children’s education?

 

As you make your decision, consider what it takes to find new friends and build a new social life. Moving doesn’t mean you cut off your connections with your old crowd. It means you grow your network. Depending on how you execute, “a bigger network leads to bigger happiness” according to one Yale study

 

 

The decision to relocate is a big one, but attacking the decision from these 3 angles should help you focus your sights on the right answer.

 

If you’re thinking of starting a job search in a new city, give one of our Brightwing recruiters a call today. At Brightwing, we’re committed to becoming your career advisor, getting to know you on a deeper level so we can match you up with the perfect opportunity.

 

 

Are You One of the 78% of People Looking for a New Job This Year?

 

Want to take these insights with you? Download the PDF.

 

Brightwing Talent Insights Survey Results 2019

Brightwing recently invited its talent network to participate in a survey to gain an inside perspective of the job search. For professionals, this is important data to help them understand where they fit into the job market and how they measure up against the competition. Read on!

 

Everyone can probably agree that one of the most frustrating experiences on the planet is dealing with the notorious used car salesman. It’s the guy who takes one look at you and is determined to get you out the door with any old set of car keys and a significantly lighter wallet. He tries too hard to be smooth and charismatic and ends up coming off as pushy, sleazy and crooked.

 

You’re cringing as you imagine that, aren’t you? So are we.

 

However, in the staffing world, we’ve heard many comparisons between terrible recruiters and used car salesmen. Just take a look at these Google autosuggest options for the search phrase “recruiters are.”

 

recruiters are

 

Ouch. That cuts deep, Google. But we’re committed to turning this stereotype on its head by getting inside your head. We surveyed our networks to find out what professionals like you are really looking for in the job search and what their experiences and hopes are in the job market.

 

Turns out, this is profound information that we wanted to share with every professional out there who is considering a career change in 2019.

 

Let’s dive in.

 

78% of People May Consider a Job Change in 2019

78% of People May Consider a Job Change in 2019If you’re thinking about possibly making a job change this year, you are certainly not alone. A massive majority (78.2%) of people are open to new opportunities, whether or not they are actively searching.

 

In most industries, especially in fields like technology and engineering, demand for top talent is through the roof while the unemployment rate has never been closer to zero. As a result, you’ve likely heard many companies and thought leaders talking about the “candidate market,” in which jobseekers have the upper hand.

 

However, while many employers are seeing fewer qualified resumes in their inbox, the massive number of professionals open to new positions makes it clear that if those employers know where to look and network, there seems to be plenty of talent to fill those empty positions.

 

What does this mean for you? Well, if you were hoping for that upper hand in the job search, inspired by the romantic notion of employers falling at candidates’ feet, the reality is you may need to step up your game to stand out from the competition. Now more than ever is the time to brush up on your skills, tidy up your resume, build your networks, and get your name out there.

 

3 in 4 Professionals Expect Difficulty in Finding a Good Role

If you needed more evidence that the “candidate market” isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, almost one in three of our survey respondents said that a good position is difficult to find. Another 40% acknowledged that they would have to really search to find the right opportunity. Only one in four think it would be a relatively fast process to find a good role.

 

3 in 4 Professionals Expect Difficulty in Finding a Good Role

 

That said, when asked to evaluate how optimistic they were about their job prospects in 2019 versus last year, over 45% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed with an optimistic outlook. Another 40% were simply neutral, while only 13% leaned to a pessimistic outlook.

 

over 45% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed with an optimistic outlook

 

From our perspective, while it’s true that demand in most industries is high and many employers have openings, there is simultaneously high competition between professionals in landing these jobs.

 

25% of People Quit for Lack of Career Growth

25% of People Quit for Lack of Career GrowthSo why are people looking for new jobs in the first place? It’s clear from our survey – as well as many other studies out there – that professionals view career development as the most pressing concern in the next stage of their careers. As a result, one in four people cite “lack of career growth” as their main reason for leaving a job.

 

Thus, if you’re feeling stagnant in your current position, but you’re unsure whether a career change could solve the problem, you may want to reconsider. With employers competing for top talent in a high-demand market, many are willing to go the extra mile to ensure you achieve career growth with their company.

 

Other top concerns as people consider the next stage in their careers are the opportunity to learn new skills and technologies as well as the team environment and management style at any potential opportunity. This was confirmed when we asked why they would leave a job: a toxic culture and poor management were the second and third reasons for leaving.

 

main reason for leaving a jobWhat about compensation? It’s the fourth on the list of most important considerations in a new career and is the fourth reason why people would leave a position. The lesson? That while money is important, it isn’t everything. When you’re spending 40+ hours a week in the same place around the same people doing the same work, there are factors much more pressing than the paycheck you get at the end of the week.

 

What do you value most in your career? Are you assessing potential opportunities accordingly? Or are you getting distracted by dollar signs or other perks that may prove to be of lesser value in the long term?

 

Job Boards Are the Search Method of Choice

If you’re searching for a new opportunity via CareerBuilder, Indeed, Dice, or any other job board, you’re far from the only one. Almost 40% of survey respondents choose online job boards when it’s time to search for a new job. The result, however, is less than satisfactory. Crowded job boards create resume black holes, making it rare that you hear back from even a fraction of the companies you apply to.

 

Job Boards Are the Search Method of Choice

The second most popular method to search for a new job is partnering with a recruiter in your industry. This approach will likely be more fruitful. The right recruiter will make a commitment to understanding your goals and motivations as well as your skills and experience. Their networks are deep, and they have access to job openings that never get advertised publicly. Thus, they’re well-positioned to find you the perfect role. If you need help finding the best recruiter for you, just check out Great Recruiters reviews for insights from professionals like you.

 

A close second to recruiters are social media networks, especially LinkedIn. If you use it right, LinkedIn can be a powerful tool to connect you with leaders and peers in your industry. Staying active and engaged on the platform will ensure you stay top-of-mind with these connections when it comes time to find a new position.

 

Don’t Wait More Than Two Weeks for an Employer to Follow Up

You might be up against more competition in the job search than you anticipated, but does that mean you should be waiting around for employers to reply to your application? The general consensus appears to be that waiting longer than two weeks for a company to follow up isn’t worth it. A mere 12% of survey respondents are willing to wait 3+ weeks. The majority (34%) give up on a company after only one week; some (22%) only wait 3-5 days; and a few more (30%) go a full two weeks.

 

Don’t Wait More Than Two Weeks for an Employer to Follow Up

 

Why does it matter? Generally, for a company that’s on top of their hiring process and is truly motivated to hire, they’re going to call, or at the very least email, qualified candidates fairly soon after they apply. Companies know that great talent is in demand and a slow process does them no favors. If they’re slow to respond, they’re either not in a rush to hire or their hiring process is disorganized and burdensome. There are exceptions, of course, but it’s a good rule of thumb to keep in mind as you’re assessing your options.

 

Relocating Might Open Up New Opportunities

Relocating Might Open Up New OpportunitiesCan relocating help you gain an edge on the competition? There’s no cut-and-dry answer, but it’s helpful to understand how other professionals feel about the topic. Almost a third of people want to stay where they are, comfortable in their current homes and communities. However, just over a third of people are willing to move if they’re presented with a competitive relocation package.

 

Relocating is a big decision to make and naturally comes with a lot of change. But if you currently live in a highly competitive region, it may benefit you to spread your wings and find other locales in need of your skills. On the other end of the spectrum, if you’re currently located in a region with few opportunities, seeking a position in an area of higher demand is likewise beneficial.

 

Brightwing Talent Insights 2019

With almost 80% of professionals open to making a job change this year, it’s likely you’re going to be up against strong competition in the job search. We hope this survey data helps provide some insight into where you stand in the market and how to make the right decision.

 

As mentioned above, partnering up with a recruiter in your industry is a popular choice for many jobseekers – and for good reason. At Brightwing, we’re committed to becoming your career advisor, getting to know you on a deeper level so we can match you up with the perfect opportunity.

 

We can’t wait to get to know you. Search our open jobs or speak to a Brightwing recruiter today.

Save these insights straight to your desktop by downloading the PDF

Did you check out our recent 2019 Hiring Insights in IT yet? We’ve got the research you need to prepare for your 2019 hiring initiatives. Go ahead and take a look – we’ll be right here waiting when you get back.

 

Surveys tell us that less than half of all tech professionals are satisfied with their current salary. And they don’t have far to look for something better. The competitive state of the IT job market looks more and more attractive every day.

 

While money isn’t the only way to recruit and retain talent (more on this later), you can’t deny that it’s a massive motivator. Thus, staying up to date with IT market rates is essential.

 

An Employer’s Quick Guide to 2019 IT Salaries

The IT pros we know love a good challenge, want to work for great companies, and embrace flexibility. But they still have bills to pay. That’s why comparing your current IT compensation package with market rates is critical to stay competitive.

 

10 years ago, the average IT salary sat at $78,845. But a decade is a lifetime in the tech industry. Today’s average IT professional is making $93,244, a significant increase over time. What era are your salaries in? Below we break down 2019 IT salaries by function, technologies, experience level, and employment type.

 

2019 IT Salaries by Function

Bear in mind, these numbers aren’t set in stone. They are highly dependent on experience level, region, industry, company size, and other elements like bonuses and perks. But the following numbers from Dice.com provide a solid baseline. Check them out.

 

 

2019 IT Salaries by Technology

Programming, big data, and cloud technologies are among the highest paying skills in the tech world. They’re also the areas that companies need talent for the most. If your 2019 IT initiatives cover these trends, you need to budget accordingly. Are you looking for talent with the following skills? If so, adjust your baseline to reflect these Dice.com salaries.

 

 

2019 IT Salaries by Experience

In this current war for tech talent, many companies are choosing to compromise. Rather than following a strict list of technical requirements and experience that severally narrows the talent pool, many employers are beginning to see the perks of hiring junior talent whom they can train and develop. In this scenario, the focus of their hiring profile is on soft skills; quality candidates must have the ability and drive to learn, adapt, and collaborate.

 

What impact does this decision make on your budget? Data from Dice.com breaks average tech salaries down by the following experience levels.

 

 

2019 IT Salaries by Employment Type

One major factor in what you pay your tech talent will of course be whether you hire them on as full-time permanent employees or as contractors. IT pros who choose to work on a contract basis do so for the higher pay, greater flexibility, and broader range of experience and opportunities it offers them. For companies whose hiring initiatives require highly specialized talent for niche projects, contract-based employees are the obvious choice. It’s a win-win situation that is becoming increasingly popular among both professionals and companies.

 

That said, it does throw a bit of a wrench in your compensation calculations. Hiring a contractor relieves the burden of taxes and benefits, but you will end up paying higher rates as a result. Choosing to partner with a staffing firm will give you even greater security and ease, not to mention a deeper talent pool, but again, this will be reflected in the salary rates.

 

Dice.com provides the following averages for IT salaries by employment type.

 

 

But It’s Going to Take More Than Money

At the end of the day, whether you’re focused on recruiting or retaining (or both), the big picture is made of more than dollar signs. Finding and keeping the best people comes down to experience, to relationships, and to intuition. At Brightwing, our motto is “Recruiting, Reimagined” – which means getting out of the transactional mindset of hiring and managing, and, instead, really getting to know the people behind the resumes and paychecks.

 

Yes, people want higher salaries – they do, after all, have mortgages, childcare, groceries, and vacations to pay for – but they also want better working conditions, more responsibilities, greater flexibility, and meaningful career development options. Did you know that 35% of IT professionals say they are very burnt out? Can you commit to being an employer that flips that statistic on its head?

 

We’d love to find out more about what you’re doing to attract top tech talent. We’re all ears. Got five minutes to chat?

 

Get the latest research in our 2019 Hiring Insights in IT Guide

Does Your Recruiter Actually Care About You?How often are you inundated with calls, emails, and LinkedIn messages from recruiters telling you all about their latest opportunity? We’re guessing it’s a lot. In fact, you’ve probably gotten pretty good at tuning it all out.

 

You’re not alone.

 

For every staffing firm out there promising they’ll act in your best interests, there are at least a thousand professionals who don’t believe them. Recruiter after recruiter will try to differentiate themselves by saying they’re “all about people,” but it’s a noisy marketplace, and it leaves professionals like you challenged by which ones to actually work with.

 

So, how can you tell if a recruiter actually cares about you and your career?

 

What Are Your Peers Saying?

When’s the last time you made an Amazon purchase without reading the reviews first? In today’s marketplace, reviews and referrals trump almost every other avenue of marketing. Any company can spend their resources making a beautiful website, compelling messaging, and engaging advertising, but the candid word of their users and customers is almost always more compelling.

 

The same is true when you’re looking for a new career. Ask former colleagues and friends about their experiences with different recruiters and don’t hesitate to ask for an introduction. Furthermore, although you may need to take them with a grain of salt, sites like Glassdoor and LinkedIn can give you a window into the quality of a staffing firm’s service for consultants as well as how they treat their own employees. If they’re really “all about people,” then you’ll see that reflected in the reviews of the people they work with and employ.

 

Do They Measure Experience?

Glassdoor and LinkedIn can only get you so far. It’s often the case that disgruntled employees are the only ones who take the time to anonymously review a company, and it’s difficult to tell how accurate their reviews are against the big picture. Instead, look for a staffing firm that is transparent about how they measure their candidate experience.

 

Recruiters who actively ask their candidates for feedback, taking the effort to measure their candidate experience, are ones who care about improving that experience. They might do this through a third-party partner like Great Recruiters, a platform that asks every candidate, whether they are placed by the firm or not, to review their experience with their recruiter. If a company is asking for feedback, they’re doing it for a reason: they actually care about the people they work with and want to get better at what they do. Don’t hesitate to ask a recruiter how they or their company solicit, measure and respond to candidate feedback. If they don’t have an answer, find someone else who does.

 

Qualities to Look for in a Recruiter

Outside of peer reviews and formal measurement systems, knowing what to look for in your own experience will be key. The Great Recruiters platform provides a compelling list of qualities that make a great recruiter:’

 

Genuine – When you first get in touch with a recruiter, do they ask the right questions to really understand you, your career goals, and your experience? If they’re not getting deeper than the details of your resume, it’s questionable whether they’re trying to make a genuine match between you and the best-fit opportunity.

Responsive – When you make the decision to reply to a recruiter’s call or email, how responsive are they in return? Does it take days before they get back to you? Do they take the time to thoroughly answer your questions?

Experienced – A recruiter can only match you to the right opportunity when they truly understand the job you’re applying for and the industry you’re in. This requires more than just matching keywords on your resume to the job description their client gave them; it requires experience.

Advisory – When you choose to change your career, you’re putting your life in the hands of a stranger. A recruiter who understands this responsibility and supports you through the process as an objective career advisor is someone you can trust.

Transparent – Is your recruiter keeping you in the loop throughout the hiring process? Or are you in the dark? Again, your career is in their hands, which means their transparency is paramount to your success.

 

Ultimately, you’re looking for a recruiter and a staffing firm that is knowledgeable in your market and skill set, capable of providing value throughout the process, and centers their service around the individual. The staffing market is increasingly transactional, but you’re more than a number. You need a firm that isn’t afraid to share their stories (check out our “Real Stories from Real Recruiters” series here) or give you a sneak peek behind the scenes (check out our employee spotlights here). These are the recruiters who genuinely seek to make a difference in your career and your life.

 

Ready to work with a recruiter that cares? Say hello to your career advisory team and search our open positions today.

 

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Does it seem like recruiters are constantly flooding your LinkedIn and email inboxes?

You’re not alone.

There are about 20,000 staffing and recruiting firms in the United States, which means an enormous number of people are looking for skilled individuals just like you. Spurred by talent shortages in the IT, Engineering, and Finance industries, these recruiters are eager to gain your trust and connect you with one of their clients.

But how do you know which recruiter is really worth your time?

 

The One Who Listens

 

Recruiters like to talk, and they’re good at it. They can describe roles with great detail, break down their process to the smallest degree, and even ask strategic questions about your background and preferences. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with being an eloquent speaker, the best recruiters are the ones who actively listen.

If you tell your recruiter that you’re trying to shift your IT career from development to network security, do they continue to throw generic development roles at you? Or did they take heed of your wants and locate a position that blends development and cybersecurity in a way that could serve as a career turning point for you? When a recruiter listens, they understand not just what kind of job you’re looking for but what kind of culture and environment you can thrive in. Additionally, they can uncover any weaknesses you might have and help you prepare for an interview when the time comes.

 

 

The One Who Puts Your Career First

 

A recruiter worth your time is one who doesn’t just focus on your next job but thinks in terms of your entire career. If they send you a job description before they ask you about what roles you want in the next five, ten, or twenty years, take it as a warning sign. 64% of recruiters say their top challenge is dealing with a talent shortage, and this unfortunately leads many to prioritize quantity over quality. In turn, that results in shortsighted goals.

 

In order to put your career first, a recruiter must understand your career goals as well as the job market and industry trends that will shape the way you can accomplish those goals. However, only 23% of recruiters consider the candidate experience to be a top priority. That cuts the previous number of 20,000 staffing firms down to 4,600 that would be focused on putting your career first. Needless to say, they’re drastically outnumbered.

 

 

The One Who Answers Your Calls, Emails, and Texts

 

Have you ever had a conversation with a recruiter who leaves you feeling hopeful and excited, like your next great role is right around the corner, only to find they disappear, never to be heard from again? There is simply no excuse for a recruiter to ghost you.

 

If they’ve already filled a role they were previously talking to you about, then they should be looking for a similar position while keeping you in the loop. If you’ve interviewed and their client is taking too long to make a decision, they should inform you so you’re not waiting around in a constant state of confusion. Great communication is the hallmark of a top-tier recruiter. The best in the game will not just respond quickly to your calls, emails, or texts, but will reach out to you regularly so that you’re rarely left having to initiate a conversation.

 

 

The One Who’s In It for the Long Haul

 

Short-term success is important. A recruiter helps you land the perfect role for this stage of your career and all parties are happy. However, that shouldn’t be the end of the relationship. A great recruiter who’s worth your time is one who sticks with you for the long haul, checking in at regular intervals to make sure your first month, quarter, and year are going to plan and that you still love your job.

 

Best yet, if you’re a consultant and your gig is getting closer to completion, a savvy recruiter will already be working for you behind the scenes, lining up your next opportunity and making sure your previous vision for your career is still accurate. Luckily, 66% of staffing firms believe they are good or excellent at nurturing placed candidates. With a partner like that at your side, you’ll be able to go right into another fantastic role without skipping a beat.

 

 

The One with Great Reviews

 

Finally, what are other candidates saying about a recruiter? When shopping for everyday items, many people rely on reviews and ratings to guide their purchases. Selecting the right recruiter should be no different. Seek out anything that can help you evaluate the reputation of a recruiter, whether it’s talking to friends, examining a recruiter’s LinkedIn page, or best yet, checking out their Great Recruiters profile.

 

 

Finding a Recruiter Worth Your Time

 

Working in an in-demand field has many perks, and while drawing interest from numerous parties is exciting, building up a strong skill set also invites a lot of unproductive noise. As you sift through the generic sales pitches, monotone cold calls, and awkward form emails, the recruiters with the most potential will begin to stand out. If they can reflect the above four traits as you begin to work with them, then rest assured you’ve finally found a recruiter who’s worth your time.

 

Having trouble finding a recruiter who embodies all these traits? Look no further; they’re at Brightwing. Reach out to us today to get connected.

 

 

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While there’s a lot of excitement for those in and around the engineering industry, there are a handful of locations where demand for engineers is higher than others.

4 Locations with the Highest Demand for Engineers

 

Engineering is a field that has historically seen strong demand, but with a current unemployment rate of 1.7%, the need for talent in the field is reaching a fever pitch. Hiring managers can’t find enough engineering talent, while professionals working in the field are finding it overwhelming to sift through the sheer number of opportunities flooding the job market. While there’s a tremendous amount of excitement and activity for those in and around the engineering industry, there are a handful of locations where demand for engineers is highest.

 

 

Michigan

When it comes to engineering, the Mitten State might have more to boast about than any other place in America. Not only does it rank in the top three states that employ the most engineers, but some parts of Michigan are seeing the highest STEM employment growth in the entire country. Such statistics indicate its place as an engineering mecca will continue for the foreseeable future.

 

Of course, the rebound of the auto industry in the last several years has played a huge part in driving the demand for engineering talent. It’s why Michigan is the number one employer of industrial engineers and employs nearly twice as many mechanical engineers than any other state. Detroit and its surrounding suburbs are at the forefront of this movement. Home to the famous American names of Chrysler, General Motors, and Ford, the area also fosters demand from international companies such as Nissan and Hitachi Automotive Systems.

 

As the auto industry focuses more on technological advancements, AI, and machine learning, the need for engineering talent is rising exponentially. Manufacturing in general is moving along the same lines, as plants outside the auto industry likewise are striving to increase efficiency through the use of technology. Also considering big investments from Amazon, Facebook, and LG, it’s no wonder that Michigan sees so much engineering activity.

 

 

Texas

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and it turns out that holds true when looking at engineering demand. The state is home to the second-highest number of engineers in the entire country, with engineering employment expected to grow over 23% by 2024. While engineers are still necessary for a huge number of roles related to the oil industry, an increased focus on sustainable energy is spiking demand further. Wind and solar projects are becoming increasingly common throughout Texas. While many of these efforts are focused on the west side of the state, Dallas-based companies are the ones leading the charge and making the big investments.

 

 

Pennsylvania

When looking at employment in general, Glassdoor ranks Pittsburg as the number one place for jobs in the United States. That drives talent to the area, and when that talent is versed in engineering, there are no shortages of jobs to flourish in. While the steel industry has lost some of its luster, U.S. Steel is still an important Fortune 500 company employing many engineers in the area. In fact, Pittsburg is home to eight Fortune 500 companies including food behemoth Heinz, construction and electrical materials manufacturer Wesco International, financial giant PNC, and more. Also taking into account the thriving medical community throughout the state, Pennsylvania has a big need for everything from biomedical engineers to process engineers and everything in between.

 

 

Florida

It might be known for oranges and sunshine, but Florida is one of the top five states driving demand for engineers. The state has one of the highest demands for agricultural engineers, thanks to ideal conditions for farming that results in two million residents working in the agriculture sector. Florida’s aerospace and aviation industry is likewise a big employer of engineers, as that sector is worth over $144 billion in economic activity each year. With over 2,000 aerospace and aviation companies and more than 20 military installations, the need for engineering talent is strong. Finally, Florida is home to a number of other organizations such as telecommunications company Harris and semiconductor manufacturer Intersil which employ thousands.

 

 

The Locations with the Highest Demand for Engineers

Engineering is one of the hottest fields in the country, and it will be that way for years to come as STEM jobs are growing at more than twice the rate of non-STEM positions. Every industry relies on engineers to an extent, and many companies simply cannot function without them. As the need for engineers continues to rise everywhere, Michigan, Texas, Pennsylvania, Florida will stand out as some of the premiere destinations looking for the most talent.

 

Whether you’re looking for your next engineering role or need to fill one, Brightwing can help. Reach out to us today to get started.

 

 

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Are you working to pay the bills or are you inspired, fulfilled, and content with your current career path? There’s a huge difference between the two, and getting from one to the other is no accident.

If you’re really serious about reaching your career goals, you need a new and better framework for getting there. Here’s what we advise.

 

Lay a Strong Foundation for Career Goal Setting

 

Author and motivational speaker Simon Sinek has a lot to say about why people fail or succeed in their endeavors. At the core, he says, success starts with finding your “why” or core purpose. This is what will direct you in both your life and your career, and it’s also the only thing that will make you feel accomplished once the adrenaline rush of promotions and raises wears off.

Closely related to this concept is Sinek’s advice to always find something better. You should never quit a job, he suggests, just to get away from it. Instead, always move on to something better, and when that’s not an option, you should use your current job as a learning experience.

Finally, he says, find a mentor. An outside perspective can help you more thoroughly discover parts of your personality and values that you should consider when determining your “why” and the career goals that align with that purpose.

 

Avoid Looking for the Perfect Job

 

Let’s be brutally honest: The perfect job doesn’t exist. While some companies have significantly better cultures, team dynamics, and opportunities than others, the trick to finding a fulfilling career is more dependent upon your own outlook and work ethic than on the company itself.

Thus, when setting your career goals, you need to be realistic about the attitude you adopt in your daily life and responsibilities. No one wants to deal with a toxic work environment, a power-hungry boss, or unreasonable expectations; but every job is going to have its challenges, disappointments, and stress. Understanding how you react and adapt to these problems will help you set more realistic career goals.

 

Adopting a Framework for Career Goal Setting

 

With the right foundation and the right attitude, you’re much closer to setting and achieving effective career goals. We return to Simon Sinek for some final advice on the specifics of career goal setting.

 

1. Think Big, Be Specific, Act Small

Creating “realistic” goals sounds sensible. However, setting the bar too low means you run the risk of never finding out what your true potential is. Sinek recommends thinking big and setting that bar higher than you’re comfortable with in order to see what you’re really capable of.

Be aware that as your goals get loftier, it’s easy to get too vague, and therein lies the danger of not reaching your target. The more specific, the better. Additionally, be prepared to act on this goal in small steps. The bigger the goal, the more bite-sized steps it will take to get there.

 

2. Use Verbs

You’ve probably heard that you should always write your goals down, and it will be tempting to simply write “a new job” or “a promotion.” The problem with goals when stated in this way is that they don’t really inspire action. Sinek suggests that when writing out your goals, you should use actionable verbs that will hold you accountable to actually doing something rather than waiting around for something to happen.

 

3. Be Patient

Big goals require patience, especially on the days when you don’t feel like you’re getting anywhere. When you’re frustrated by your progress or by roadblocks in your path, revisit your “why” to remember the core reasons you’re seeking these goals. How will a new job impact your life? What difference do you hope to make by achieving that promotion? These are big goals. Patience is key.

 

4. Measure Often

Reviewing your goals regularly is the only way to hold yourself accountable to achieving them. What milestones should you be measuring on your way? What expectations should you be exceeding in preparation? These might be performance reviews, certifications or classes, project successes, or interviews. Whatever your points of measurement, make sure you write them down and review them regularly.

 

5. Don’t Compare

Comparing your progress to what you perceive in other people will only set you back. Remember, you created your goals based on your core values and purpose, so they are unique to you. That means your progress and timeline are unique, too. You should only be comparing yourself today to yourself yesterday.

 

Are you ready to reach your career goals in 2022? We’d love to hear more about them and, if possible, help you achieve them. Contact us here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

How the Most Successful Engineering Job Seekers Dominate Technical Interviews

 

There’s nothing more effective in securing a dream engineering job than nailing your technical interview. Interviewers want to see what you know and how you break down problems to reach conclusions. Do you look at every aspect of a problem? Do you recognize variables and possible outcomes? It may even be as simple as your process for solving brain teasers or math problems. If you’re prepared for all situations, you won’t break a sweat!

 

 

Here’s our technical interview cheat sheet to help you navigate the sea of engineering job interviews.

 

Brush up on Your Skills
The technical interview is an “applied knowledge” exercise, so brush up on the fundamentals. This process is designed to see how you apply your basic knowledge, so be sure that your foundation is strong for the engineering job opportunity. If there are more recent skills expected in your profession (a new computer language, tooling software, etc.) make sure you have some knowledge of these to show that you are an evolving professional.

 

ace the technical interview to land engineering jobs

Think out loud
While our experience with many math or logic tests have required silence, this is a scenario where you want to speak up. Thinking out loud will let interviewers see how you approach a problem, break it down, and plan an attack.

 

Ask questions
Communication and cooperation are key to any engineering team, so asking questions in a technical interview is one of the best ways to show how well you work with others. Do you ask follow-up questions to get more information? You won’t know every answer when you’re out in the field, so asking questions can help you paint a better picture of the issue at hand. It is not a sign of weakness. Remain calm and positive to work through the scenario.

 

Use tools provided
Whatever tools you are given, it’s in your best interest to use them. Printed scenarios or problems allow you to build a base of questions before you start creating your own. Hidden tools may be in the answers you are given, so be sure to listen carefully. Don’t forget about the job description either – this is one of the biggest tools you’re given. Use the position responsibilities as a guide to reference your own experience doing similar tasks and projects, and make sure you can speak to the skills required for the position.

 

Possible questions

While there is no telling exactly what problems or scenarios you will be asked, here are some of the most common ones:

– Name 5 ways to retrieve a needle from a haystack.

– Explain the concept of polymorphism in object-oriented development.

– If a system fails and has to be rebooted, what tool can we use to look at monitoring and CPU usage for the past week?

– You have 100 doors in a row that are all initially closed. You make 100 passes by the doors starting with the first door every time. The first time through you visit every door and toggle the door (if the door is closed, you     open it, if it’s open, you close it). The second time you only visit every 2nd door (door #2, #4, #6, etc.). The third time, every 3rd door (door #3, #6, #9, etc.), until you only visit the 100th door. Question: what state are the doors in after the last pass? Which are open which are closed?

 

To close, be enthusiastic and thank your interviewers for their time. Technical interviews are no easy task, but if you prepare mentally for the challenge, interviewing for engineering jobs will be a piece of cake.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″ css=”.vc_custom_1574868853781{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;background-color: #f7f7f7 !important;}”][vc_raw_html css=”.vc_custom_1581093901436{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}”]JTNDaDIlM0VzaWduJTIwdXAlMjBmb3IlMjBvdXIlMjBtb250aGx5JTIwbmV3c2xldHRlciUzQyUyRmgyJTNFJTBBJTI2bmJzcCUzQiUwQSU1QndwZm9ybXMlMjBpZCUzRCUyMjI3MjUxJTIyJTIwdGl0bGUlM0QlMjJmYWxzZSUyMiUyMGRlc2NyaXB0aW9uJTNEJTIyZmFsc2UlMjIlNUQlMEE=[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″ css=”.vc_custom_1573242552154{margin-right: 20px !important;margin-left: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Sending thank you notes after any interview is important, but thanking interviewers after the second interview is a MUST! The stakes are higher, and so are the expectations. Every situation is different. Sometimes mailing your thank you is the best option, and other times an email is the way to go. In this blog, we’ll provide 3 examples to say thank you after the second interview.

No matter which thank you method you use, the objective at this point is to emphasize your enthusiasm for the position, the company, and why you are the best fit for the position based on your experience.

 

Thank You Email After Second Interview

 

Emailing a thank you note after the second interview is by far the most common follow-up method. Although there are always exceptions, we’ve come up with a few ways for you to tell when you should utilize email over snail mail:

— The interview was very informal and laid back

— The interviewer is following up within 3 days

— The job itself requires a lot of email usage[/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”custom” accent_color=”#d29f13″ css=”.vc_custom_1581094687269{padding-top: 50px !important;padding-bottom: 50px !important;}”][vc_column_text]#1. Email Example (in-person interview)

Justin — 

It was great meeting with you for a second interview today! My enthusiasm for X position has grown even stronger since our first discussion. Once again, I felt a strong connection with the culture of X company, and believe I would make a great all-around fit. My X skills and advanced experience in X solidify my belief that I am a great fit for this exciting position.

Thank you again for taking the time to meet with me. I look forward to hearing back from you!

Joe[/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”custom” accent_color=”#d29f13″ css=”.vc_custom_1581094687269{padding-top: 50px !important;padding-bottom: 50px !important;}”][vc_column_text]#2. Email Example (over-the-phone interview)

If you had two phone interviews, you probably spoke to two different people.

Justin — 

I enjoyed speaking with you for my second interview today! Ever since my first interview with Jason, I’ve had a strong vested interest X Company. Our discussion today solidified my enthusiasm for X position, and I am confident that my experience in X would make for a great fit.

Thanks again, and I look forward to meeting the X Company team and yourself in person!

Joe[/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”custom” accent_color=”#d29f13″ css=”.vc_custom_1581094687269{padding-top: 50px !important;padding-bottom: 50px !important;}”][vc_column_text]

Thank You Letter After Second Interview

 

Mailing a thank you letter may seem a little old-school, but it’s still appropriate for some situations. For example, if the hiring manager or company has a more traditional attitude or culture, a thank you letter may be the way to go. Here are a few other reasons why you may want to choose snail mail over email:

— Interview was very formal

— Lengthy hiring process

— Interviewed with other candidates[/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”custom” accent_color=”#d29f13″ css=”.vc_custom_1581094687269{padding-top: 50px !important;padding-bottom: 50px !important;}”][vc_column_text]#3. Letter Example

Dear Mrs. Green,

 

Thank you for taking the time to interview me for the second time. I appreciate your interest in my candidacy for X position.

As we discussed, I believe that my array of X skills will be of great value for X Company. I am especially interested in this position because X, Y, and Z. I am looking forward to meeting with you again to discuss any further details about my past experience, skill sets, or any other relevant matters.

 

Kind Regards,

Joe[/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”custom” accent_color=”#d29f13″ css=”.vc_custom_1581094687269{padding-top: 50px !important;padding-bottom: 50px !important;}”][vc_column_text]

Final Interviewing Tips

 

No Dumb Mistakes – You cannot afford to spell the interviewer’s name wrong. Be sure to proofread!

Personalize – Be authentic, and make sure to reiterate what was previously discussed in the interview.

Be Prompt – Sending a thank you note within 24 hours shows that you mean business.

 

We wish you the best of luck in all of your interviews. If you ever need any assistance, feel free to contact Brightwing anytime.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”75px”][vc_separator][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”75px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1571082843545{background-image: url(http://dev2020.brightwingbdev.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/yellow-cta-background-1.jpeg?id=1558) !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1639422626877{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}”]

let’s get to know each other

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1571085449280{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 5px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”]

SEND US A MESSAGE

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Facebook: How to Use Social Media to Get a Job

 

You may not think of Facebook as a job seeking tool, but we must not forget how large its reach is. Data by Statista reveals that the amount of Facebook users only continues to increase over the years with over 1.8 billion active users currently. This is the best platform to show off your personality which is crucial in today’s market.

 

 

5 Simple Ways to Help your Job Search on Facebook:

 

 

1. Get Help from Your Friends

There’s nothing wrong with saying, “I’m looking for a new career opportunity in Software Engineering. Does anyone have any suggestions?” – Or something along those lines. Most people have at least 100 friends on Facebook, and when you think about the network your friends have, you can reach thousands of people.

 

 

facebook2. “Like” Companies You’re Interested In

“Liking” a company on Facebook can help your job search in more than one way. One obvious advantage is being able see all of their status updates, many of which may be about job openings. It’ll also keep you in the loop of any industry news, or current events that will facilitate you getting your foot in the door. If anything, a simple “like” also shows appreciation for what the company does.

 

 

 

3. Use Facebook Job Searching Apps

Some companies are starting to implement convenient job search apps that can be used on their profile. You’re likely already utilizing Facebook socially, so why not check out job openings while you’re at it?

 

 

4. Join and Get Active in Groups

Join alumni groups, job searching groups, and any common interest group that might post job openings. Some companies might even create their own groups that are dedicated to their own job postings.

 

 

– SEE ALSO –

1439854158_squarico-18How to Use Social Media to Get a Job: Twitter

linkedinHow to Use Social Media to Get a Job: LinkedIn

LinkedIn: How to Use Social Media to Get a Job

 

Looking for jobs on LinkedIn may seem straightforward, but there are many unique features and tricks that can put you ahead of the curve. Of course, to utilize these resourceful job hunting tricks, your LinkedIn profile must first be crafted in a way that accurately represents you. That means having up-to-date information that shows professionalism and dedication.

 

 

Beyond browsing the platform jobs page, here are 4 Ways to Get a Job on LinkedIn:

 

 

 1. Use Advanced Job Search

Instead of hoping for the best when you search for jobs on LinkedIn, why not take advantage of the “Advanced Job Search” option? If you’re dedicated to the automotive industry, and are planning to make at least $100,000, your job search just became easier with this tool.

 

advanced search LinkedIn

 

 

2. Sign up for Email Job Alerts

To take your LinkedIn “Advanced Job Search” one step further, try signing up for job alerts. The best part about this is that you can customize the type of job you’re looking for. You can also choose how often you want to receive the emails. For step-by-step instructions on how to sign up for LinkedIn job alerts, click here.

 

 

Linkedin

3. Post to LinkedIn Publishing Platform

LinkedIn’s Publishing Platform grants a great opportunity to sell yourself when searching for a specific job. The advantage of using this feature is that all of your connections get notified when you post. If you’re not sure on what to write, simply be sure to remain active on your profile and engage with your connections.

 

 

4. Connect / Reach Out to Company Hiring Managers

If you haven’t noticed already, when you a visit a company’s LinkedIn profile, all of the employees that work for that company can be found on the right-hand side. This bodes well for individuals that want to reach out to large companies. Instead of messaging company website forms, you can get in touch with recruiters directly. To do this, simply search for hiring managers/recruiters and send them a message – This shows your dedication.

 

 

– SEE ALSO –

1439854158_squarico-18How to Use Social Media to Get a Job: Twitter

1439854134_squarico-19How to Use Social Media to Get a Job: Facebook

 

Twitter: How to Use Social Media to Get a Job

 

 

Twitter doesn’t have the most transparent job seeking features, but that’s all the more reason to utilize it to stand out to employers. Before we dive in, remember to be yourself. There’s no need to be super formal; You can save that for LinkedIn.

 

 

5 Unique Ways to a Get a Job with Twitter:

 

 

1. Use Twitter Hashtags

Whether you love them or hate them, hashtags are here to stay. That being said, there are a lot of different hashtag tactics that can really help your job search. For one, take advantage of sites like Hashtagify.me to see which hashtags are getting the most hits. This can be utilized when you post an update about your job search.

 

You can also search hashtags to see who’s hiring. Tags like #job or #jobs are are highly common, but you should probably get more specific to find something more suitable for you. If you’re looking for an IT job in Dallas, you may want to search tags like #Dallasjob, #TexasJobs, #IT, #ITJob, etc. Try it out!

 

Twitter hashtag

 

 

2. Follow & Interact With Recruiters

Although you can also do this on LinkedIn, recruiters and hiring managers love when job seekers think outside-the-box to contact them. Twitter is a lot less formal than LinkedIn, so you can treat it as a tool to do business, as well as socialize. Don’t be scared to show your personality – Sometimes that’s what it’s all about.

 

 

twitter

3. Update Your Twitter Bio

This is your chance to share what you do, what you’re passionate about, or what type of position you’re looking for. Even if you’re not actively looking for a job, adding a current position may open a door to a new opportunity or a helpful connection.

 

 

4. Participate in Industry or Company Chats

Twitter chats are becoming increasingly popular among job seekers and hiring managers/companies. They are especially useful for someone looking to discuss a specific topic with like-minded individuals, such as job openings, and industry news.

 

There are also Twitter Chats that aren’t initiated by one specific company. #JOBHUNTCHAT (every  Friday at noon EST), for instance, is a chat that many different companies and groups engage in.

 

 

5. Message the Company Directly

Submitting your resume via email or through a website is great, but why not follow-up on Twitter? There’s honestly not much to it – Just another way to stand out from the crowd.

 

 

– SEE ALSO –
linkedinHow to Use Social Media to Get a Job: LinkedIn
facebookHow to Use Social Media to Get a Job: Facebook

 

3 Steps for Success for Engineering Professionals

 

Engineering professionals are one of the most sought after individuals in the job market. In fact, according to Forbes, industries that haven’t needed engineers in the past, are now actively looking to fill these critical positions. With a wide range of opportunities available, it’s a great time to be an engineer!  Be sure to follow these 3 Steps for Success to grow in your career:

 

 

1. Build Relevant Engineering Experience

Experience is everything in any field. If you have a specific engineering career goal in mind, build experience that is relevant to that goal. This will keep you on the right track to quickly become an expert in a specific field, opening up many opportunities for you. When it comes to experience, there’s usually two types of people: those who don’t have enough, and those who have a little bit of everything.

   >>If you’re an engineer who’s just starting out, our recruiters’ advice is that you diversify your experience. This doesn’t mean you have to have 5 different jobs within the next five years, but diversify your experience at your current position by simply asking. Ask your manager for new responsibilities, new projects, or new opportunities that you can get in on. A new project might lead you to learn a new software which may just get you your next job.

    >>As an engineer who’s been in the field for some years, be sure to filter out your experience. It’s not about how much you have, but about how much of the right experience you can bring to the job. Depending on what position you’re going after, tailor your resume/LinkedIn to highlight the skills necessary for that job or industry.

 

 

2. Write a Strong Resume

Having a clear and direct resume is key to getting your foot in the door. It’s been said that recruiters spend about 7 seconds or less looking at a resume. Don’t make them invest extra time trying to figure out what you’re trying to communicate. Chances are that they won’t, and they’ll move on to the next one. Instead, make sure your resume reads well and highlights your strong engineering abilities. Every skill, every tool, and every software that is relevant to the industry/position you’re applying for should be clear and visible on your resume. Don’t assume people will automatically know that certain skills align with a specific title because it always varies. Being explicitly clear will help you showcase the best version of yourself, and guide you in the right path towards your goals.

 

 

3. Be enthusiastic

Engineering professionals, like many others, tend to grow too comfortable in their current positions. Even if you love the company you’re in, it doesn’t mean you should stop growing and learning. Recruiters are not only looking for people who are well-qualified, but for people who are passionate about what they do. If you want to succeed as a professional, it’s absolutely crucial to remain enthusiastic within your role. It’s such a simple, yet powerful factor that will positively impact your career.

IT Jobs: 10 Interview Tips to Showcase Your Skills

 

So you say you’re an incredible .NET developer? That’s awesome, but if you have trouble communicating your expertise to a non-technical interviewer, we’re here to help! Our IT recruiting team has truly seen it all. With years of experience, finding great IT jobs for tech professionals is our bread and butter. I sat down with our recruiters to get the real-world advice they give interviewees to help them land their next IT job. Here’s what they said:

 

1. It’s okay to be nervous. It’s natural, and interviewers usually expect it. Don’t psych yourself out by trying to cover it up. It usually comes off as awkward.

 

2. Take a notebook with you to take notes throughout the interview. Even if you don’t think you need it, not taking notes can send the wrong message. You can even use the notebook to your advantage by writing down questions you may have for the interviewee beforehand.

 

3. Evaluate yourself afterwards by writing down any questions that may have stumped you immediately after an interview. Re-evaluate your answer so you can decide if and how you might answer it differently in the future. The more interviews you go on, the more confident you’ll become when taking this extra step.

 

4. Give specific examples when answering a question while still being concise. If you aren’t sure that you gave them enough information ask, “Does that answer your question?” or “Would you like more information?” to prevent from rambling on.

 

5. Be prepared to talk about your technical abilities with someone with no technical knowledge. Many times, at least one of your interviewers will have little knowledge of the systems you work with. Be able to describe your experience in detail in terms that non-practitioners would understand.

 

6. Pay attention to body language. If you notice your interviewer getting impatient, wrap up your point quickly so you can move on to the next topic. Remember that many interviews only last an hour, so be conscious of the time to allow enough time for all their questions and yours.

 

7. Eye contact and a firm handshake. So many people forget this, but it’s critical to making a good impression.

 

8. Study the job description before you go into the interview. Even if you don’t have all of the skills “required,” there is a reason they have agreed to meet with you. If you know or have experience with 80% of the description, focus on researching the 20% that you don’t. It will show that you have drive. You can also use the 20% you don’t know as a weakness (if they ask), and spin it into something positive where it shows you’re capable of learning and improving in these areas.

 

9. Silence is okay. If you have fully answered the interviewer’s question, STOP. Don’t ramble on. The interviewer may just be taking notes or collecting their thoughts.

 

10. Get the interviewers’ contact information. Send all interviewers a hand-written thank you note, or email them a thank you at the very least. Pro tip: master the fine art of writing the perfect thank you note.

 

 

 

Career Success - Staying on the Fast Track

 

Now more than ever, employers look beyond a skill set when hiring someone. It only takes a weekend on social media or an insensitive comment to sabotage your own progress. Here are 5 common slip-ups to avoid, so you can stay on the fast-track path to career success.

 

Crossing the line with TMI

One of the most self-sabotaging ways to impact your career success is to offer too much information. This may be a negative remark about yourself or others, in which case shows a lack of emotional intelligence. As a result, it changes the opinion that people have of you, causing your career to suffer.

 

Mismanaging Social Media

Before hiring someone, employers want to get to know who they’re hiring. Social media is a great way to do so, but it might be detrimental to your career success. Even if you already have a job secured, posting pictures from a wild weekend can end up in the wrong hands. Although social media is a great place to share about your life, be mindful of what you post out there. Avoid ranting about your work, or any personal issues that should be kept private.

 

Settling with your skill-set

If you want to ensure career success, it’s important to keep your skills up-to-date. Don’t conform with where you are, and what you’ve achieved. Expanding your education will set you apart from others, and will speak highly of you.

 

Depending on Your Mentor 24/7

Maintaining a healthy, well-balanced, relationship with your mentor or boss is extremely important. Avoid taking it to an extreme, or your career will pay the price. To avoid over-alignment, diversify your workplace relationships and avoid becoming attached at the hip with those who mentor you.

 

Declaring Office War

Office conflict is inevitable. The way you handle it, will either hurt your career or help you grow as a person. Regardless of the situation, try to always take the high-road and treat everyone with respect. People will take notice, and it’ll also help you build strong and valuable relationships with your co-workers.