The Best Ways to Use LinkedIn 2023

The Best Ways to Use LinkedIn 2023

Do you need a LinkedIn?

Short answer? Yes, you should have a LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is a resource for not only your job search, but for career exploration, networking, and growth. On LinkedIn you can access people’s professional credentials, explore what jobs are offered in your industry, and see insights into your career field. It’s likely a hiring manager on LinkedIn might find your profile in your job searching process, and the better your profile, the better impression you’ll make! Your LinkedIn account can build your credibility around who you are and your professional experiences.

 

So how do you get started on LinkedIn?

The first step is to make a profile! You’ll want to add a recent professional photo as your profile picture. Your company may offer custom LinkedIn banners, you could google a LinkedIn banner to add to your profile, or if you’re feeling creative you can create your own using Canva or Adobe. Then, you will add your career and education history. Add in your personal statement and you will have a great start to your LinkedIn!

 

What’s the best way to utilize LinkedIn?

There are many ways to use LinkedIn while in your job search and while already employed. Here are some of our top tips on how to utilize LinkedIn.

1.)    Follow companies and people you admire.

For example, if there is a marketing campaign that stood out to you on Instagram, check out LinkedIn to see more information. Are you interested in the next iPhone or electric car company? Follow their LinkedIn page to see what’s coming up next.

2.)    Post your thoughts on industry articles, share work highlights, and lessons learned.

It’s important to cultivate your personal brand in your posts. Comment friendly suggestions or compliments to others’ work accomplishments. Share your own accomplishments or challenges you’ve been having at work and ask for help from your network. You can even demonstrate how you overcame challenges to help others who may encounter similar challenges in the future.

3.)    Actually connect with your connections.

If there is someone who is doing really cool work, send them a message and ask for a coffee chat or informational interview. If someone reaches out to you, engage back with what they are asking or interested in. The whole point of a connection is to connect!

4.)    Add your portfolio or website links.

Do you have a portfolio of your past work that would contribute to your work credibility? That should be in the link section of your profile. It is fantastic for those who work in an industry where past projects can help you land your next role.

5.)    Add certificates, licenses, and projects.

Taking professional development courses? That’s an excellent opportunity to share your growth on LinkedIn. You don’t have to wait until you’re done to share either! When you reach a milestone in your course or work project, that’s a great chance to share with your professional network.

6.)    Follow accounts that inspire you and start scrolling.

The best way to learn how to utilize LinkedIn is by spending time looking at what others are doing. Ask yourself what you’d add or change about their posts and start making posts that you love.

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If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, browse jobs today! We help entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals. Find more advice to help you in your job search. You can add Avenica on LinkedIn here.

6 Little Things That Will Help you Get a Job

6 Little Things That Will Help You Get a Job

The little things are sometimes what help you land the job, or even miss out on the opportunity. Our hiring experts at Avenica have compiled a list of the “little things” that end up not being so little in the hiring process. Make your time count by considering the following tips when searching for a role.

1.)    Set up your voicemail.

When a hiring manager gives you a ring it may be to ask to schedule your next interview round or even offer you the role! Without a voicemail, you have no idea what the news is, and it can be discouraging if the hiring manager doesn’t hear back. By setting up a professional voicemail you can be sure that there is no barrier to communication between you and those who want to hire you!

2.)    Keep your emails organized.

If spam and marketing emails are taking up all your space in your email inbox it may be hard to sort through interview emails and even the job offer emails that may be in your inbox. It can be helpful to create a folder where all your virtual meeting links go or flag the ones that have not yet occurred. In addition, keep track of any emails that get auto-trashed after accepting. The last thing both you and the hiring manager want is for you to not be able to find the link to connect.

3.)    Use your professional email address and proper grammar in your application materials.

If you’re still using that old email you made in middle school, that’s great, but not for your job search. Your email is one of the first things hiring managers learn about you and it is important to keep interactions with the hiring manager professional.

Also, make sure your name is capitalized and spelled correctly in your application! Little things like this can make a big impact when hiring managers are looking at applications.

4.)    Texts and emails should maintain professional tones.

Texts with a potential employer aren’t the same as texting your BFF. Texting is a common form of communication in the hiring world, but it is still important to use your best grammar and spelling. Proper punctuation can help make it easier for you to clearly communicate to those who are working to get you a job.

5.)    Create a professional interview environment you can thrive in.

One of the best tricks for this is to DOUBLE CHECK your zoom background before hopping on! If you’re choosing to wear PJ pants with your blazer, that’s fine (though maybe not recommended…), but please make sure that the person you’re meeting with cannot see them. If there is someone else in the room with you, please keep them out of the background.

It is best to have a solid color background or if that is not an option most video apps have the ability to blur your background. If you’re not sure how to do this, look up a quick tutorial on YouTube prior to starting your virtual meeting. Feeling comfortable with technology can help your confidence and the ease at which you can communicate with those who want to hire you.

It’s important to know that the hiring process is an extension of the workplace. Life happens, but it is important to invest in your interview. This means not sitting on the couch or driving during your time with the interviewer. Keep your phone steady in one place to optimize sound and experience for all involved.

6.)    Read the emails that hiring managers send.

In order to get the most out of the time you have with a hiring manager make sure you know who you are talking to on the other end of the interview. Review the company’s core values and what they do, and be sure you understand the position being discussed. It is great to bring any clarifying questions you might have, but it’s up to you to really know generally what you are interviewing for before showing up to the interview.

Messages from the interviewer will most likely contain interview details, so be sure you are aware if something is a video or phone call interview, when it will take place, and if there are any additional steps to take before the interview.

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If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, browse jobs today! We help entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals. Find more advice to help you in your job search.

How to Stand Out in Your Next Job Interview

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How to Stand Out in Your Next Job Interview

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Avenica

 

Are you ready to ace your next interview? Here are six things that make a candidate stand out in our interview process here at Avenica. If you are looking to launch your career apply to one of our open entry-level positions now!

 

1.)    Being on time is being early

When it comes to interviews being on time means being early. If your interview is in person consider arriving 15 minutes early to the office. It is also worth your time to look up the transit or parking situation, in case there is a walk that you need to factor in.

Even in the cases of phone and video interviews, the same principles apply. Plan out where you will take the interview in advance, such as at your desk or table. Make sure you won’t be interrupted during the interview. When waiting for the call or the zoom to begin review your resume and get into a positive and excited mindset. A smile as you hop on the call will go a long way.

2.)    Be prepared for a scheduled interview

In order to stand out in your interview you need to know what you’re talking about. Be prepared with your interview answers and have some specific scenario-based examples that you can bring to the table. Look up some common interview questions and practice answers with a friend or in front of a mirror. If possible, look up the specific questions common for the company or role you are applying for, and brainstorm your answers prior to the interview. It doesn’t need to be an exact script but make sure to have a general idea of what you will talk about.

3.)    Have a prepared answer for “tell me about yourself”

Beyond preparing for industry-specific questions, it is also important to consider how you will introduce yourself. When an interviewer asks you how your day is going consider how you might answer – you could potentially add a few positive details that would help the interviewer get to know you. For example, you could share that you are doing great and went on a nice hike that morning. Taking advantage of every opportunity is important during an interview. For more on how to answer the “tell me about yourself” question check out our blog focused on this interview element.

4.)    Stay focused on what you bring to the table, not what you don’t

There is no need to highlight the skills you lack. If specifically asked about something you are unsure about you could highlight your readiness to obtain that skill or the steps you have already taken to learn that skill, but don’t bring up what you don’t know. We want to hear you capitalize on the skills that you do have and worked hard to gain.

5.)    Bring your questions to the interview

Work takes up a huge part of your life, it is important that you know about where you will potentially work. Take time before the interview to prepare questions to ask the person interviewing you. Most likely they will ask at the end of your interview if you have any questions, and it is important that you capitalize on this opportunity to show your interest in the role and the company. Make sure they are questions you are truly curious about that will provide clarity on the role and company.

6.)    Know who you are interviewing with

If someone schedules an interview with you it is vital that you understand the role you are interviewing for and what the company interview you does. You should know the basics about the company, it’s core values, mission, and where they are located. If possible, look up the interviewer on LinkedIn prior to connecting as well.

In addition, familiarize yourself with the position description. Have an example ready for each bullet of the duties on the job description that you can share about if asked. You should have a good idea of what you will be doing and bring any questions about the tasks to the interview.

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If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, browse jobs today! We help entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals. Find more advice to help you in your job search.

How to Research a Company Before Your Interview

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How to Stand Out in Your Next Job Interview

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Riley Ovall

 

Are you ready to ace your next interview? Here are six things that make a candidate stand out in our interview process here at Avenica. If you are looking to launch your career apply to one of our open entry-level positions now!

 

1.)    Being on time is being early

When it comes to interviews being on time means being early. If your interview is in person consider arriving 15 minutes early to the office. It is also worth your time to look up the transit or parking situation, in case there is a walk that you need to factor in.

Even in the cases of phone and video interviews, the same principles apply. Plan out where you will take the interview in advance, such as at your desk or table. Make sure you won’t be interrupted during the interview. When waiting for the call or the zoom to begin review your resume and get into a positive and excited mindset. A smile as you hop on the call will go a long way.

2.)    Be prepared for a scheduled interview

In order to stand out in your interview you need to know what you’re talking about. Be prepared with your interview answers and have some specific scenario-based examples that you can bring to the table. Look up some common interview questions and practice answers with a friend or in front of a mirror. If possible, look up the specific questions common for the company or role you are applying for, and brainstorm your answers prior to the interview. It doesn’t need to be an exact script but make sure to have a general idea of what you will talk about.

3.)    Have a prepared answer for “tell me about yourself”

Beyond preparing for industry-specific questions, it is also important to consider how you will introduce yourself. When an interviewer asks you how your day is going consider how you might answer – you could potentially add a few positive details that would help the interviewer get to know you. For example, you could share that you are doing great and went on a nice hike that morning. Taking advantage of every opportunity is important during an interview. For more on how to answer the “tell me about yourself” question check out our blog focused on this interview element.

4.)    Stay focused on what you bring to the table, not what you don’t

There is no need to highlight the skills you lack. If specifically asked about something you are unsure about you could highlight your readiness to obtain that skill or the steps you have already taken to learn that skill, but don’t bring up what you don’t know. We want to hear you capitalize on the skills that you do have and worked hard to gain.

5.)    Bring your questions to the interview

Work takes up a huge part of your life, it is important that you know about where you will potentially work. Take time before the interview to prepare questions to ask the person interviewing you. Most likely they will ask at the end of your interview if you have any questions, and it is important that you capitalize on this opportunity to show your interest in the role and the company. Make sure they are questions you are truly curious about that will provide clarity on the role and company.

6.)    Know who you are interviewing with

If someone schedules an interview with you it is vital that you understand the role you are interviewing for and what the company interview you does. You should know the basics about the company, it’s core values, mission, and where they are located. If possible, look up the interviewer on LinkedIn prior to connecting as well.

In addition, familiarize yourself with the position description. Have an example ready for each bullet of the duties on the job description that you can share about if asked. You should have a good idea of what you will be doing and bring any questions about the tasks to the interview.

___

If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, browse jobs today! We help entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals. Find more advice to help you in your job search.

Tell Me About Yourself

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“Tell me about yourself” – How to answer this question in your next job interview

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Avenica

A commonly asked question during the job interview process involves telling the interviewer about yourself. This can be an intimidating question for many and it’s normal to not know how to answer this question.

One thing to keep in mind when shaping your answer is that the recruiter is genuinely looking to learn more about you than they already know. To answer, “It’s pretty much all on my resume,” would be doing yourself a disservice and would be a missed opportunity to share more of your shining qualities. This is a great chance to elaborate on your resume and consider what else is important to you at work.

It is also helpful to consider the relevance of what you want to share when answering this question. For instance, it might not be helpful to tell a hiring manager about your life from ages 0-16 years old unless that’s directly related to the job or the company.

Some things that hiring managers do want to hear about are: your degree and why you chose it, your top skills and how you developed them, what your biggest success story was in a recent role on your resume, what your career goals are, and what fills your time outside of work (a hobby? volunteering? what book you’re reading now?).

For example,

Interviewer: “Tell me about yourself.”

You: “I am originally from Washington, which gave me a love for the mountains and being outdoors. That’s why I chose to apply for the role of Outdoor Exhibitor; I have learned that I am most energetic outdoors and want to be able to work in this type of environment. I am planning to hike Mount Rainier with my partner this spring. I learned a lot about high altitude safety in my prior role with the US Forest Service and it has been really useful to take the things I’ve learned from work into my weekend hiking adventures.”

In this answer, the candidate provides relevant details to the role he’s interviewing for, while also giving insight into his personal life without sharing too much. He talked lightly about his skill for altitude hiking which was developed in a previous role, and his passion and goals shined through!

The hiring manager gained insight into his background, previous work experience, and personal interests without him going off-topic. A common mistake that is made when answering this question is going so far off-topic that you begin to talk about someone or thing that isn’t relevant to the job. For example, if you share that you like to walk your dog in the mornings, make sure it stays about you and doesn’t turn into a 5-minute rant about your dog instead. Although dogs can be a great connection point, it is important to talk about yourself in this question.

Good luck on your next interview; we’re cheering for you!

If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, browse jobs today! We help entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals. Find more advice to help you in your job search.

What Industries Offer Hybrid Jobs?

Insights

How to Stand Out in Your Next Job Interview

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Avenica

 

Are you ready to ace your next interview? Here are six things that make a candidate stand out in our interview process here at Avenica. If you are looking to launch your career apply to one of our open entry-level positions now!

 

1.)    Being on time is being early

When it comes to interviews being on time means being early. If your interview is in person consider arriving 15 minutes early to the office. It is also worth your time to look up the transit or parking situation, in case there is a walk that you need to factor in.

Even in the cases of phone and video interviews, the same principles apply. Plan out where you will take the interview in advance, such as at your desk or table. Make sure you won’t be interrupted during the interview. When waiting for the call or the zoom to begin review your resume and get into a positive and excited mindset. A smile as you hop on the call will go a long way.

2.)    Be prepared for a scheduled interview

In order to stand out in your interview you need to know what you’re talking about. Be prepared with your interview answers and have some specific scenario-based examples that you can bring to the table. Look up some common interview questions and practice answers with a friend or in front of a mirror. If possible, look up the specific questions common for the company or role you are applying for, and brainstorm your answers prior to the interview. It doesn’t need to be an exact script but make sure to have a general idea of what you will talk about.

3.)    Have a prepared answer for “tell me about yourself”

Beyond preparing for industry-specific questions, it is also important to consider how you will introduce yourself. When an interviewer asks you how your day is going consider how you might answer – you could potentially add a few positive details that would help the interviewer get to know you. For example, you could share that you are doing great and went on a nice hike that morning. Taking advantage of every opportunity is important during an interview. For more on how to answer the “tell me about yourself” question check out our blog focused on this interview element.

4.)    Stay focused on what you bring to the table, not what you don’t

There is no need to highlight the skills you lack. If specifically asked about something you are unsure about you could highlight your readiness to obtain that skill or the steps you have already taken to learn that skill, but don’t bring up what you don’t know. We want to hear you capitalize on the skills that you do have and worked hard to gain.

5.)    Bring your questions to the interview

Work takes up a huge part of your life, it is important that you know about where you will potentially work. Take time before the interview to prepare questions to ask the person interviewing you. Most likely they will ask at the end of your interview if you have any questions, and it is important that you capitalize on this opportunity to show your interest in the role and the company. Make sure they are questions you are truly curious about that will provide clarity on the role and company.

6.)    Know who you are interviewing with

If someone schedules an interview with you it is vital that you understand the role you are interviewing for and what the company interview you does. You should know the basics about the company, it’s core values, mission, and where they are located. If possible, look up the interviewer on LinkedIn prior to connecting as well.

In addition, familiarize yourself with the position description. Have an example ready for each bullet of the duties on the job description that you can share about if asked. You should have a good idea of what you will be doing and bring any questions about the tasks to the interview.

___

If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, browse jobs today! We help entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals. Find more advice to help you in your job search.

Seven Books to Enhance Your Career Search

Insights

How to Stand Out in Your Next Job Interview

Avatar photo

Riley Ovall

 

Are you ready to ace your next interview? Here are six things that make a candidate stand out in our interview process here at Avenica. If you are looking to launch your career apply to one of our open entry-level positions now!

 

1.)    Being on time is being early

When it comes to interviews being on time means being early. If your interview is in person consider arriving 15 minutes early to the office. It is also worth your time to look up the transit or parking situation, in case there is a walk that you need to factor in.

Even in the cases of phone and video interviews, the same principles apply. Plan out where you will take the interview in advance, such as at your desk or table. Make sure you won’t be interrupted during the interview. When waiting for the call or the zoom to begin review your resume and get into a positive and excited mindset. A smile as you hop on the call will go a long way.

2.)    Be prepared for a scheduled interview

In order to stand out in your interview you need to know what you’re talking about. Be prepared with your interview answers and have some specific scenario-based examples that you can bring to the table. Look up some common interview questions and practice answers with a friend or in front of a mirror. If possible, look up the specific questions common for the company or role you are applying for, and brainstorm your answers prior to the interview. It doesn’t need to be an exact script but make sure to have a general idea of what you will talk about.

3.)    Have a prepared answer for “tell me about yourself”

Beyond preparing for industry-specific questions, it is also important to consider how you will introduce yourself. When an interviewer asks you how your day is going consider how you might answer – you could potentially add a few positive details that would help the interviewer get to know you. For example, you could share that you are doing great and went on a nice hike that morning. Taking advantage of every opportunity is important during an interview. For more on how to answer the “tell me about yourself” question check out our blog focused on this interview element.

4.)    Stay focused on what you bring to the table, not what you don’t

There is no need to highlight the skills you lack. If specifically asked about something you are unsure about you could highlight your readiness to obtain that skill or the steps you have already taken to learn that skill, but don’t bring up what you don’t know. We want to hear you capitalize on the skills that you do have and worked hard to gain.

5.)    Bring your questions to the interview

Work takes up a huge part of your life, it is important that you know about where you will potentially work. Take time before the interview to prepare questions to ask the person interviewing you. Most likely they will ask at the end of your interview if you have any questions, and it is important that you capitalize on this opportunity to show your interest in the role and the company. Make sure they are questions you are truly curious about that will provide clarity on the role and company.

6.)    Know who you are interviewing with

If someone schedules an interview with you it is vital that you understand the role you are interviewing for and what the company interview you does. You should know the basics about the company, it’s core values, mission, and where they are located. If possible, look up the interviewer on LinkedIn prior to connecting as well.

In addition, familiarize yourself with the position description. Have an example ready for each bullet of the duties on the job description that you can share about if asked. You should have a good idea of what you will be doing and bring any questions about the tasks to the interview.

___

If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, browse jobs today! We help entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals. Find more advice to help you in your job search.

How to Let People Know You’re Looking for a New Job

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How to Let People Know You’re Looking for a New Job

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Avenica

Are you searching for your first job? Or maybe you’re just looking for a new job? Either way, it’s important to let your network of friends, family, and colleagues know that you’re looking!

Your network can be a powerful tool for your job search, as some 80% of jobs are acquired through personal and professional networks.

If you don’t have a LinkedIn account yet, do it now! Trust us on this one. Creating your profile only takes a few minutes and allows you to get your name out there and start making connections. LinkedIn is also the perfect platform to announce that you’re searching for a job. Making a simple post announcing that you’re searching allows your network to refer you to potential opportunities that you might not hear about through typical job boards. It could even get you one step ahead with a personal recommendation depending on your relationship with your connection!

With all of this in mind, here are a few tips and a basic template that will tell others that you’re looking for a new job and put you on the right track towards finding your next role. Feel free to make any edits to adapt to your specific needs and goals.

How to Create the Perfect LinkedIn Post to Announce Your Job Search

Posting on LinkedIn is a solid way to make a connection that can lead to finding your next role. Because of the nature of LinkedIn, your post will show up on the feeds of anyone in your network, as well as their entire network if they interact with your post. While it won’t automatically guarantee you get noticed (you’ll have to do some direct networking as well), it’s a great start to get your name out there.

Here’s what you can include to create a solid job announcement post on LinkedIn:

  1. Why You’re Looking for a New Job: (common reasons include graduating, moving to a different city, switching industries, or returning to work after a period of not working).
  2. Accomplishment Highlight: Hype yourself up to your network by sharing a professional achievement
  3. Relevant Skills and Interests: Share what you’re good at or what you’re looking to leverage in your new role. Also, include the industry or industries you may be interested in.
  4. Call-to-Action: Be specific with your goal. Do you want people in your network to reach out with links to job ads or only directly with referrals? Or maybe you just want to be connected with someone at a company you’d like to work for.

Job Search Announcement Template if You Have Experience

Hi everyone! I am currently living in [LOCATION] and looking for a job in the area. I come from a background in [INDUSTRY]. I have [NUMBER] years of experience in [SPECIFIC SKILLS RELATED TO YOUR ROLE] and at my previous employer, [PREVIOUS EMPLOYER], I [YOUR ROLE + AN ACCOMPLISHMENT]. Some of my other skills include [SKILL], [SKILL], and [SKILL] that I’m hoping to leverage in the [INDUSTRY] industry.

If anyone knows of a job opening at a company where I would be a good fit, I’d appreciate if you could send them my way! If you have any recommendations on who I could speak to, I would be happy to connect as well.

Job Search Announcement Template if You Have No Experience

Hi everyone! I am currently living in [LOCATION] and looking for a job in the area. I have a degree in [DEGREE] and I’m hoping to gain experience in [SPECIFIC SKILLS RELATED TO YOUR DEGREE OR CAREER INTERESTS]. Through my education and previous experience in [PREVIOUS JOB THAT HAS TRANSFERRABLE SKILLS, IF APPLICABLE], I learned [TRANSFERRABLE SKILLS ex. Customer service, communication, leadership] that I’m hoping to leverage in my career.

If anyone knows of a job opening at a company where I would be a good fit, I’d appreciate if you could send them my way! If you have any recommendations on who I could speak to, I would be happy to connect.

Networking is a powerful tool in your job search, and these templates are a solid start to getting connected to some great opportunities. Don’t forget, we at Avenica are happy to help you with your job search. Just apply to one of our open roles and we’ll help you get your foot in the door at a company you’ll love.

If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, contact Avenica or browse jobs today! We help our entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals.

Flexible Work Options 101

What are some ways to have flexibility at work?

Time off

FTO (Flexible time off) is a way that employers give their employees flexibility in the workplace. The FTO model offers employees as much or as little paid time off as they’re interested in. This time usually replaces traditional PTO balances or other paid days such as vacation days, sick days, emergency days, and other time off. Most often this involves coordination with a manager or team, to make sure all work is completed, and that coverage is available, but overall gives employees more freedom to manage their time away from work.

Flexible Working Hours

In 2020 the work model shifted; many traditionally in-office employees began working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With so much work being done in the comfort of homes many people began asking, “is there really a reason work must be done between 8-5?” The answer is, “not always.” Many employees enjoy the benefit of working their own hours, which are commonly known as “flex time.” The traditional 8am -5pm work hour model can be shifted based on an employee’s personal needs and their employer’s expectations.

Time zones, in the past, have been a challenge in collaboration for corporations that operate nationwide. Now, however, employees can work remotely at a company that is based in a completely different time zone. Many employees are starting their days early and getting off early or starting later and finishing later. The expectation to be online between the hours of 8am – 5pm is fading for many companies and employees are taking in the freedom that this offers.

Riley Ovall is the Content Specialist for Avenica. She shared, “I work remotely for Avenica even though I live in a time zone five hours behind my team. I reached out to my supervisor prior to my move and asked if this is something the company would be able to support and got approval to work in a new state. I start my day at 5am and end my day at 2pm. I can attend all my meetings and complete work in this time, and then have the rest of my day to spend as I choose. I feel most productive in the mornings and have been seeing a huge push in my work since shifting to the hours that make me feel best, while living in a location I love!”

Compressed Work Week

The compressed work week has been a popular topic as some companies explore a four-day work week. A compressed work week looks like shifting a 40-hour five-day work week into a different number of days. It could look like four 10-hour days, 80-hours in nine days, or an agreed upon ratio between employer and employee. Employers are utilizing this to offer more full days off to employees, while maintaining the same amount of work. This could give flexibility to parents to volunteer for their children’s activities or allow for hobbies and opportunities that occur within traditional workdays.

Location

As more and more employees find themselves permanently in remote positions, the world opens to them. No longer does a person have to live in the same area as their employer. This freedom is commonly known as “flex place” and allows a person to work wherever they want. Not all companies have this ability, but it can be a huge plus to those looking for a big move, while maintaining a role they love.

“Being able to move was a super attractive part of my current role,” said Ovall. “I was hired while living at my parents’ post-graduation and knew eventually I would want to move out. Being able to spend 6 months saving up and establishing myself before moving out was a huge benefit. Now I am living in a place I love hundreds of miles away from where I was originally hired.”

Why are employers offering more flexible work benefits?

Employers are offering more flexible work benefits for many reasons. One reason is to give their employees the lifestyle that fits them best. By giving an employee the hours and location of their choice, they are entrusting their team members to take full ownership of their time and work. This trust often produces better results. Another reason for employers to explore this flexibility is to attract talent who are seeking a more flexible lifestyle. Offering flexible options can be a huge factor when an employee accepts an offer.

How can I find out how much flexibility a job offers?

Many employers will put flexible work opportunities in their job descriptions. A person can look in the benefits section of a job description to see if these options exist in the role they are applying for. This is also something that a hiring manager could explain during the interview process. In addition, it may be negotiable after being offered a position as a part of employee compensation.

What are some ways to make the most out of my flexible work options?

If someone gets the opportunity to enjoy flexible work benefits, there are many ways to utilize them. A person may choose to use flexible hours to explore their hobbies such as working out, being creative, or learning a new skill to advance their career. For many working parents, this can also mean more time spent chaperoning field trips or having flexibility when childcare falls through. Someone could also take time to volunteer with an organization they are passionate about. There is also opportunity to focus on a person’s mental health and recharge with flexible work hours.

If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, contact Avenica or browse jobs today! We help our entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals.

Breaking Down the Job Offer

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“Tell me about yourself” – How to answer this question in your next job interview

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Avenica

A commonly asked question during the job interview process involves telling the interviewer about yourself. This can be an intimidating question for many and it’s normal to not know how to answer this question.

One thing to keep in mind when shaping your answer is that the recruiter is genuinely looking to learn more about you than they already know. To answer, “It’s pretty much all on my resume,” would be doing yourself a disservice and would be a missed opportunity to share more of your shining qualities. This is a great chance to elaborate on your resume and consider what else is important to you at work.

It is also helpful to consider the relevance of what you want to share when answering this question. For instance, it might not be helpful to tell a hiring manager about your life from ages 0-16 years old unless that’s directly related to the job or the company.

Some things that hiring managers do want to hear about are: your degree and why you chose it, your top skills and how you developed them, what your biggest success story was in a recent role on your resume, what your career goals are, and what fills your time outside of work (a hobby? volunteering? what book you’re reading now?).

For example,

Interviewer: “Tell me about yourself.”

You: “I am originally from Washington, which gave me a love for the mountains and being outdoors. That’s why I chose to apply for the role of Outdoor Exhibitor; I have learned that I am most energetic outdoors and want to be able to work in this type of environment. I am planning to hike Mount Rainier with my partner this spring. I learned a lot about high altitude safety in my prior role with the US Forest Service and it has been really useful to take the things I’ve learned from work into my weekend hiking adventures.”

In this answer, the candidate provides relevant details to the role he’s interviewing for, while also giving insight into his personal life without sharing too much. He talked lightly about his skill for altitude hiking which was developed in a previous role, and his passion and goals shined through!

The hiring manager gained insight into his background, previous work experience, and personal interests without him going off-topic. A common mistake that is made when answering this question is going so far off-topic that you begin to talk about someone or thing that isn’t relevant to the job. For example, if you share that you like to walk your dog in the mornings, make sure it stays about you and doesn’t turn into a 5-minute rant about your dog instead. Although dogs can be a great connection point, it is important to talk about yourself in this question.

Good luck on your next interview; we’re cheering for you!

If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, browse jobs today! We help entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals. Find more advice to help you in your job search.

So, what’s normal for benefits? It depends. Companies all do this differently. Some may put out more vacation time or flexible time off for employees, and some may offer higher 401K matching programs. Depending upon what your priorities are, either of these can be viewed as better or worse for your own needs.

Moving on to the team structure. In case no one mentioned it to you during your interview process, this may be the first time you’re learning who you would report to and potentially who would be on your team. Do some digging! Search LinkedIn for the company you’re applying to and see if you can find any employees listed as working for that company with a title like yours or within the same area of the business. Peeking at their profiles may give you a better idea of your teammates and the culture of the workplace. You can also do this for your boss! It’s not snooping, it’s investigating for your future.

Finally, look a bit deeper into the additional documents that are requested. Is the employer looking for you to sign a noncompete? A noncompete is a legal document that tells you where you can and cannot work in the future for a given period. Often noncompetes are in place to ensure you don’t share industry or company secrets to a competitor that may put that company in jeopardy or lose any market share. They may only be enforced in a specific geographic location, or they may only be for a particular industry or client of theirs. Regardless, it’s good to check it out. Then seek advising on it from trusted mentors or even an attorney.

Now that you’ve reviewed everything from your offer, it’s time to sign and accept the offer or go back to the hiring manager with your counteroffer. It’s important to note that not all situations would be accepting of a counteroffer. Especially if you’re working with a recruiter, agency, or career launching platform like Avenica. Often the roles they’re placing have salaries and packages that are locked in with little wiggle room. They will also share this with you up front. If you’re going it alone, that may be another story and a topic for another blog post.

Good luck on your job search; we’re cheering for you!

If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, contact Avenica or browse jobs today! We help our entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals.