Archive April 2008

Be proactive - manage conflict before it arises

Conflict in the workplace is something that everyone deals with. Whether it is caused by differing opinions or a specific event, it decreases productivity and success within organizations.

As noted in an AllBusiness.com publication, “Informal counseling provides managers and supervisors with an effective means of addressing and managing conflict in the workplace.” However it’s not always that easy!

Here are some simple ways to avoid workplace conflict:

- Address issues before they become a larger problem – glares and hissing won’t solve everything.

- Have a process for resolving conflicts – creating a plan of action works best if it’s BEFORE conflict arises.

- Provide conflict and mediation training for all employees – learning makes the world go round.

- Discourage gossip – and other lame school-yard bullying tactics.

- Make sure job expectations are realistic and consistent with job description – riding a unicycle for an hour blind-folded might be out of most people’s league.

- Recognize and encourage praise for accomplishments – gold stars for all!

Managers who are able to successfully manage conflicts will experience fewer complaints. Appropriately, employees who are able to diffuse conflicts in a respectful and timely manner experience will create a more positive and efficient work environment for all!

posted by TonyPogo at 4/28/2008 | 0 comments

Be proactive - manage conflict before it arises

Conflict in the workplace is something that everyone deals with. Whether it is caused by differing opinions or a specific event, it decreases productivity and success within organizations.

As noted in an AllBusiness.com publication, “Informal counseling provides managers and supervisors with an effective means of addressing and managing conflict in the workplace.” However it’s not always that easy!

Here are some simple ways to avoid workplace conflict:

- Address issues before they become a larger problem – glares and hissing won’t solve everything.

- Have a process for resolving conflicts – creating a plan of action works best if it’s BEFORE conflict arises.

- Provide conflict and mediation training for all employees – learning makes the world go round.

- Discourage gossip – and other lame school-yard bullying tactics.

- Make sure job expectations are realistic and consistent with job description – riding a unicycle for an hour blind-folded might be out of most people’s league.

- Recognize and encourage praise for accomplishments – gold stars for all!

Managers who are able to successfully manage conflicts will experience fewer complaints. Appropriately, employees who are able to diffuse conflicts in a respectful and timely manner experience will create a more positive and efficient work environment for all!

posted by TonyPogo at 4/28/2008 | 0 comments

Networking 101

Working and learning go hand-in-hand. We are always learning new skills to help us do our job better, more efficiently, learning how to utilize our existing skills, and more about ourselves as employees.

As stated on the ASA website, “Education. Training. Networking. Knowledge. These are the hallmarks of staffing industry professionalism.”

Networking is regarded as one of the most effective job search tools, and it’s simple: build relationships and share information with others. More specifically, networking is the process of creating and sustaining relationships with people you meet.

Top 5 reasons why networking is important:

1. Build rewarding relationships
2. Connect with individuals from a variety of industries
3. Learn about jobs and other career opportunities that aren’t advertised
4. Build a list of contacts that are willing to mentor and help
5. Future employment – 60% of jobs are landed using a network

So get out there – meet people, and explore all of the opportunities that others in different industries have to offer!

posted by TonyPogo at 4/16/2008 | 0 comments

Job-hopping made easy

Jen worked as a customer service representative for some time. Eventually she decided that she needed a change. While Jen wanted to continue to work in a communication position, she desired a change of industry. By identifying her core skills, Jen was able to find a Human Resources (HR) position, which allowed her to gain additional skills and experience. Her responsibilities and environment changed, but she was still able to do what she was good at and loved!

In all my years of being Green, I’ve seen a lot of success in switching industries. For old times sake, I’ll tell you the story of my not-so-green-friend, Jen.

Current trends have shown that many employees are switching industries through different professional positions. And, working with a staffing industry provides a great opportunity to do this!

In a recent study done by the American Staffing Association, “Diversity in jobs is a top reason staffing employees choose temporary or contract work.”

Furthermore, employees that are able to switch industries provide additional skills and experience to employers and their position: “When a candidate has strong and relevant core skills, employers appreciate the fresh perspective.”

So, take advantage of all of the opportunities that the staffing industry has to offer! Flexibility and diverse opportunities - what more could you ask for?!

posted by TonyPogo at 4/2/2008 | 0 comments

Job-hopping made easy

Jen worked as a customer service representative for some time. Eventually she decided that she needed a change. While Jen wanted to continue to work in a communication position, she desired a change of industry. By identifying her core skills, Jen was able to find a Human Resources (HR) position, which allowed her to gain additional skills and experience. Her responsibilities and environment changed, but she was still able to do what she was good at and loved!

In all my years of being Green, I’ve seen a lot of success in switching industries. For old times sake, I’ll tell you the story of my not-so-green-friend, Jen.

Current trends have shown that many employees are switching industries through different professional positions. And, working with a staffing industry provides a great opportunity to do this!

In a recent study done by the American Staffing Association, “Diversity in jobs is a top reason staffing employees choose temporary or contract work.”

Furthermore, employees that are able to switch industries provide additional skills and experience to employers and their position: “When a candidate has strong and relevant core skills, employers appreciate the fresh perspective.”

So, take advantage of all of the opportunities that the staffing industry has to offer! Flexibility and diverse opportunities - what more could you ask for?!

posted by TonyPogo at 4/2/2008 | 0 comments