Rocking Parenting and Professional Life with a Newborn

Having a baby is one of the most joyful moments in life, but it can also be one of the most stressful times, especially when you’re trying to juggle both parenting and professional commitments. Working remotely with a newborn baby can be challenging, but it’s possible with the right approach. Below we’ve provided some tips that we hope help you navigate this new and exciting time in your life:

Create a Flexible Schedule

Flexibility allows you to adjust your work hours based on your baby’s needs and your own energy levels. This may mean working in shorter, more focused bursts during nap times or late in the evening when your baby is sleeping. By designing a schedule that works for both your work and parenting responsibilities, you can find a balance that allows you to be productive while still being present for your little one.

Communicate with Your Team/Manager

Clear and open communication with your team and manager is crucial when working remotely with a newborn. Be transparent about your needs and limitations, and discuss how you can effectively manage your workload. Set realistic expectations and establish clear boundaries to ensure everyone is on the same page. Regularly check in with your team and keep them informed of any changes or challenges you may be facing. This will help foster understanding and support from your colleagues and manager.

Prioritize and Delegate Tasks

Identify the most crucial and time-sensitive projects, and focus your energy on completing them first. Delegate non-essential tasks to colleagues or outsource them to freelancers or virtual assistants. By prioritizing and delegating, you can ensure that your workload remains manageable and that you have time and energy to devote to both your baby and your professional responsibilities.

Take Advantage of Naptime

Naptime can be a valuable opportunity for productivity. Use these quiet moments to tackle important tasks, catch up on emails, or attend virtual meetings. Prioritize your workload and make a to-do list so you can make the most of the limited time. Be prepared to work efficiently and focus on tasks that require uninterrupted concentration. If your baby naps on a schedule, that is also a great time to schedule meetings if you need to have them. Of course, there is no guarantee that your baby will nap or stay asleep during those meetings so be upfront with whomever you are meeting with or have a backup plan for someone to help out with the baby during those times. 

Take Care of Yourself Too

Taking care of yourself is crucial when balancing parenting and professional life with a newborn. Don’t forget to eat nutritious meals, get adequate sleep when you can, and ask for help from family and friends. By nurturing your own physical and mental health, you’ll be better equipped to handle the demands of remote work and parenting. Remind yourself, this is a season and it won’t last forever but you do need to make sure you are not overextending yourself when you have a newborn to care for.

Seek Support from Other Parents

Connecting with other parents who are also navigating the challenges of working remotely with a newborn can provide valuable support and encouragement. Seek out online communities, forums, or social media groups where you can share experiences, ask for advice, and gain insights from others who are going through a similar journey. By building a network of fellow parents, you can find comfort in knowing that you’re not alone and gain helpful tips and strategies for managing the demands of both parenting and professional life. We have a dedicated Facebook group for our audience that you can use to find new jobs but also connect with fellow moms.

If you have any tips for your fellow moms, share them with us!

 

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Success Story- Erika Sheets

Tell us about you and your experience finding work on HireMyMom.

HireMyMom was an upgraded experience from the start! I was impressed with the obviously curated collection of employers and opportunities, particularly compared with the grind of the standard job sites. I also noticed how much more responsive employers were, probably in part because they, too have a select audience. I am delighted to have found the perfect job at the perfect time thanks to HireMyMom!

What are your top tips for landing a job or jobs on HireMyMom.com?

Concise resume, personal note with application, find, connect with & message the hiring manager on LinkedIn

What piece of advice do you wish someone had given you at the start of your work from home journey?

Successful remote work requires strong executive functioning skills, initiative and self-discipline.

What do you see as your greatest success in life?

Introducing other to Jesus Christ

What is something about you that many people don’t know?

I read and retain at a very accelerated level

 

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Managing Remote Virtual Assistants for Small Businesses

A remote virtual assistant is a valuable asset to small businesses, providing support and assistance. However, managing remote virtual assistants comes with its own set of challenges. Traditionally, everyone would be in an office with easy access to one another to ask questions as well as to keep everyone accountable on tasks. However, this looks a little different in our virtual world:

Understanding the Role of a Remote Virtual Assistant

Remote virtual assistant roles are diverse, encompassing administrative duties such as managing emails and scheduling appointments, to more specialized tasks including social media strategy, content creation, and data management. The versatility of a remote virtual assistant means that they can adapt to the specific needs of a business, making them a highly flexible asset.

For small business owners to maximize the benefits of working with a remote virtual assistant, it is crucial to identify the areas of their operation that require the most support. This could involve routine tasks that consume a disproportionate amount of time or specialized projects that require specific expertise not available in-house. For example, you might find yourself spending a lot of time scheduling meetings with clients — a virtual assistant can help with this! On the more specialized side of things, you might need a VA that can respond to customer inquiries about product specifications.

Establishing a detailed job description is a key step in this process. It should not only outline the tasks and responsibilities but also highlight the skills and experience required to perform the role successfully. This clarity helps in selecting a remote virtual assistant whose capabilities align with the business’s needs, fostering a productive and mutually beneficial working relationship. 

Setting Clear Expectations and Communication Guidelines

From the outset, define the work parameters: specify the tasks, deadlines, and the frequency of updates required. Detailing these aspects will prevent misunderstandings and ensure that your assistant has a precise understanding of what is expected from them.

Decide on a communication rhythm that works best for your business and your assistant. Whether it’s daily, weekly, or bi-weekly, these regular check-ins will serve as touchpoints for both parties to discuss progress, address any hurdles, and adjust priorities as needed. The chosen communication tools — be it email, messaging apps, or video calls — should facilitate easy and open dialogue.

Furthermore, it’s crucial to agree upon the work hours that align with your business needs while considering the time zone differences. This clarity not only aids in setting realistic deadlines but also ensures that there are designated times when immediate feedback or urgent discussions can take place. 

 

Overcoming Common Challenges in Managing Remote Virtual Assistants

Navigating the obstacles of remote collaboration with virtual assistants requires a strategic approach to maintain a healthy, productive work environment. Addressing miscommunication is crucial; implementing a standard operating procedure for how tasks are conveyed and feedback is given can mitigate misunderstandings. Creating a structured yet flexible accountability system where achievements and progress are regularly reviewed also enhances motivation and productivity.

To combat the sense of isolation that remote assistants might feel, integrating virtual social interactions and team-building activities can foster a sense of belonging and improve morale. Encouraging a work culture where remote virtual assistants feel valued and part of the team not only strengthens their loyalty but also bolsters their commitment to the business’s success. Adopting these strategies allows small businesses to effectively manage the challenges that come with remote virtual assistants, ensuring a cohesive and efficient team dynamic.

Have you worked with a VA before? Share your experiences with us!

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How to Conduct an Effective End-of-Year Employee Review

Your end-of-year employee review can be crucial to ensuring your company’s success in the upcoming year, but it can also be quite daunting if you’re not sure what to ask your employees or what your expectations are for them. Just as you should ask an important set of questions when hiring someone, you should also be specific during their yearly reviews. Here are some questions you should consider asking during your next end-of-year review, along with key performance indicators that will help you make necessary changes to help your team succeed in the future.

What goals were accomplished this year?

This is a tricky question because many employees take on new tasks and responsibilities at the end of the year. If you want to know what they accomplished, ask them what tasks they completed that were related to their original job description. You could also ask them about how they overcame any challenges, or what skills they picked up this year. Finally, you can let them know your expectations for next year and see if they are open to achieving those goals as well.

What goals were not accomplished this year, and why?

Ask your employees why they did not accomplish certain goals and how they could overcome that in the future. For example, if you ask a salesperson why they did not meet their quarterly goals and they say I don’t know, then you should spend some time diving deeper into that question. Did they place all the calls they were supposed to? Did they follow up? Was there a procedure in place to help them handle difficult contacts or onboard new ones?

By getting to the root of any issues that arise, you can better prepare your team to meet those goals in the future. If the employee’s answer is different from what you expected, it might be a sign that something needs to change. It’s important to remember that your end-of-year review should always be constructive – there should never be any negative feedback because ultimately this meeting is about improvement and growth. This does not mean you should not address negatives such as someone who does not follow the daily check-in schedule; it just means you should bring that up and try to address it positively, pointing out what is happening and asking for a change.

What did the employee do well this year?

This is the perfect place to give praise and highlight any good that the employee has done this year. They deserve it! 

What could the employee have done better this year?

Employees should be able to articulate what they could have done better this year and be specific so they are able to improve upon the points you mention. Be sure to ask questions that will allow them to reflect on the items you want them to improve upon. Make sure that you ask them what they think they could have done better first. Just as you let employees ask questions and provide comments during the interview process, allowing room for a conversation on both ends during reviews not only gives both parties a chance to speak, but it should help improve your team’s performance. Then, if your employee does not mention something that you have noticed, address that. Remember, be specific so they are able to improve upon that point next year. Just saying something like “your turn time wasn’t fast enough” won’t help. Tell them they turned in projects two days late every time and that needs to be fixed moving forward, as an example.

What are the employee’s goals for next year?

One of the best questions to ask during an end of year review is what goals employees have for next year. Goals are important because they give employees a sense of purpose and help them better understand how their work impacts the business. Setting measurable goals will also allow you as a manager, or company owner, to set clear expectations. For example, “I want you to increase sales by 20%, or I want you to reduce customer complaints by 10%.” This will make it easier for managers and employees alike to understand what’s expected in order to achieve success. Make sure that all goals are measurable so that there is no confusion about what needs done and how progress can be measured along the way. Just saying “get more sales” helps no one.

What are some key performance indicators that can be used to measure progress towards those goals?

In order to evaluate performance, ask employees what key performance indicators they want to measure. Goals and objectives should be set in advance. This will allow you to see how the employee is performing in relation to their goals and objectives. It will also give them a chance to talk about what obstacles they are facing, so that you can work with them on solutions. After employees have mentioned what they want to measure, it is then your turn to share what items you want to measure and how much you want to improve them.

For example, maybe your employee points out that their customers respond better to emails versus phone calls. You should take that feedback and focus more on KPIs (key performance indicators) around emails instead. Then, you can say that you want to see more new customers brought in via email, so you will also be measuring new leads to conversions via email.

What questions do you ask at your end of year reviews? Let us know so we can share them with the HireMyMom family!

 

 

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Why Moms Rule the Virtual Assistant Game

Moms are marvels at prioritizing and focusing on the important things! From running the household to working a full-time job, they’re the ultimate busy bees. But did you know that moms also make great virtual assistants? It’s true — their unique set of skills makes them the perfect fit for this type of work because…

Moms Know How to Prioritize

Whether it’s managing the household, handling work tasks, or taking care of the kids, moms have a knack for prioritizing what needs to be done first. Their skill in prioritizing ensures that nothing falls through the cracks and that everything gets done efficiently and effectively.

They’re Masters of Taking on Tasks

From managing calendars and scheduling appointments to handling various projects and assignments, moms can seamlessly juggle it all. Their skills ensure that no task is left unfinished and that deadlines are always met; by knowing what to prioritize, they will ensure that everything is done on time.

Familiar with a Variety of Tasks

Moms are no strangers to tackling a variety of tasks. From managing household chores and organizing schedules to handling work projects and juggling kids’ activities, moms have experience in a wide range of tasks.

Time Management is Second Nature

Moms are pros at squeezing the most out of every minute and keeping things on schedule. They’re able to prioritize tasks, allocate time slots for each one, and stay focused to ensure everything gets done. 

Patience is a Virtue

Moms have the patience of saints, and it’s a quality that makes them incredible virtual assistants. Whether it’s dealing with demanding clients, troubleshooting technical issues, or calmly navigating challenging situations, moms have the ability to remain patient and composed.

They Have Strong Communication Skills

Whether it’s coordinating with clients, collaborating with team members, or delivering clear instructions, moms excel in communication. Moms know how to listen actively and respond effectively, making them excellent communicators in the virtual assistant role.

Detail-Oriented and Organized

Moms have a keen eye for spotting errors, ensuring that every task is completed with precision and accuracy. From organizing schedules and managing files to keeping track of important details, moms excel at creating order out of chaos.

Natural Problem Solvers

Moms have an uncanny ability to think on their feet and come up with solutions to any problem that comes their way. Whether it’s finding creative ways to entertain the kids or figuring out how to fix a broken toy, moms have a natural knack for problem-solving.

Can Adapt Quickly to Changes

Moms have a knack for quickly assessing new situations and finding solutions on the fly. Their ability to adapt quickly ensures that they can navigate any changes with ease, making them reliable and indispensable members of any team.

Dependable and Reliable Team Players

When you have a mom as your virtual assistant, you can trust that they will always show up and give their best effort because they understand the importance of being reliable and meeting deadlines. With their strong work ethic and commitment to excellence, moms make the perfect team players who can be counted on to get the job done.

Those are just a few of our favorite reasons that moms make the best virtual assistants! What’s your favorite reason — let us know!

 

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Make Work and Play Happily Coexist with these “Snow Day” Solutions

Working from home with children at home can be a challenge, especially when the kids are out of school for a snow day for those of you who live in cold weather climates. Whether it’s due to inclement weather or a planned day off, finding ways to balance your work with your child’s needs can be tricky. Luckily, there are lots of creative solutions you can use to make work and play happily coexist. 

Set Expectations and Rules Early On

Setting expectations and rules early on is crucial to creating a productive and harmonious day for both you and your child. Before the day begins, sit down with your child and discuss what is expected of them during work hours. Explain that you will need uninterrupted time to focus, and outline specific tasks or activities they can do independently. Make sure they understand the importance of being quiet and respectful of your workspace. This is also important to do with any other family members in the household that might be helping you.

Keep Them Busy with Screen-Free Activities

When your child is at home, it’s important to have a variety of screen-free activities to keep them engaged and occupied. Set up a craft station where they can create art projects or build with Legos. Plan a scavenger hunt or indoor treasure hunt to keep them entertained. Encourage them to read books or listen to audiobooks, or engage in imaginative play with their favorite toys. Outdoor activities like sledding or building a snowman can also be a great way to keep them busy and active. If you live in a warmer climate, your child can enjoy a variety of other outdoor activities such as using sidewalk chalk.

Utilize Online Learning Resources

During snow days or days off school, online learning resources can be a valuable tool to keep your child engaged and learning. There are a multitude of websites and educational platforms available that offer interactive games, educational videos, and worksheets that cover various subjects. Sites like Khan Academy, National Geographic Kids, and Scholastic provide a wide range of age-appropriate materials that can supplement your child’s learning at home. Take advantage of these resources to keep your child occupied while also fostering their love for learning.

Get Your Child Involved in Your Work

Getting your child involved in your work can be a great way to keep them occupied while also teaching them important skills. Depending on their age, you can give them simple tasks like organizing papers or sorting files. If they’re older, you can involve them in brainstorming sessions or ask for their input on a project. This not only keeps them engaged but also helps them feel valued and part of your work. Plus, it’s a fantastic opportunity for them to learn about your profession and gain insight into the world of work.

Take Breaks and Plan Fun Activities Together

During a snow day or day off school, it’s important to take breaks and plan fun activities to do together with your child. This will not only give them a break from their independent activities but also allow you to bond and enjoy quality time together. Take short breaks throughout the day to play a board game, have a dance party, or do a puzzle together. Plan fun activities like baking cookies, building a blanket fort, or having an indoor picnic. These moments of fun and connection will make the day more enjoyable for both you and your child, and create lasting memories.

What are some of your favorite ways to work from home with your kiddo? Let us know!

 

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Your Guide to Ditching the 9-5 and Starting a Work-from-Home Life

Are you dreaming of leaving the 9-5 corporate world to start a new work-from-home lifestyle? If so, you’re not alone. Working from home can offer you more flexibility, a better work-life balance, and even a higher salary. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps you need to take to make the switch and start a successful work-from-home career. From understanding your goals to developing a plan and networking, you’ll find all the resources you need to turn your dreams into reality. 

Assess Your Current Job Situation

Before making the leap into a work-from-home career, it’s important to assess your current job situation. Take a close look at your job responsibilities, the work environment, and your overall job satisfaction. Consider whether your current skills and experience align with potential work-from-home opportunities. Assess your financial situation and determine if you have a safety net in case the transition takes longer than expected. Evaluating your current job situation will help you identify areas of improvement and determine if working from home is the right move for you.

Research Potential Work-From-Home Careers

Are you ready to explore the vast array of work-from-home opportunities? From freelance writing and virtual assistance to graphic design and digital marketing, there are countless options out there. Take the time to explore different industries, consider your interests and skills, and identify the work-from-home careers that align with your passions and goals. With careful research and exploration, you’ll find the perfect fit for your new work-from-home life. You can sign up with HireMyMom to search our available job opportunities, but if you want a sneak peek, you can see some of our open remote work positions on our website.

Create a Plan

A well-thought-out plan is crucial for successfully transitioning to a work-from-home lifestyle. Start by setting clear goals and objectives for yourself. Determine what steps you need to take to achieve those goals, such as acquiring new skills or certifications. Create a timeline and prioritize your tasks to stay organized and motivated. Remember to be flexible and open to adjustments as you navigate your new path. For example, if you are a mom who has been out of the workforce for a bit, you should start by determining what type of position you want. From there, you will need to revisit your application materials to update them — don’t forget to tailor sections on your résumé and cover letter for each job you apply for. If you need a little help getting started, our experts can be of assistance.

Build Your Work-From-Home Infrastructure

Now that you have a clear plan in place, it’s time to start building your work-from-home infrastructure. This includes setting up a dedicated workspace, acquiring the necessary equipment and software, and establishing a routine that suits your new lifestyle. Invest in a comfortable and ergonomic office chair, a reliable computer, and any other tools specific to your chosen work-from-home career. Consider setting boundaries with your family and friends to ensure uninterrupted work time. Creating a conducive work environment is key to maximizing your productivity and setting yourself up for success in your new work-from-home life.

Network and Market Yourself

Once you’ve decided to pursue a work-from-home career, it’s important to network and market yourself to potential clients or employers. Start by updating your resume and online profiles to highlight your relevant skills and experience. Join online communities like our Facebook group and professional networks in your chosen field to connect with like-minded individuals and gain valuable insights. Leverage social media platforms to showcase your expertise and build an online presence. Attend in person or virtual conferences or webinars to expand your knowledge and network with industry professionals. Don’t be afraid to reach out to potential clients or employers and pitch your services. With proactive networking and effective self-promotion, you’ll increase your chances of landing remote work opportunities.

Transition and Make Adjustments as Necessary

Once you’ve taken the leap into a work-from-home career, it’s important to be prepared for the transition and be open to making adjustments along the way. Embrace the change and be willing to adapt to new routines, schedules, and work styles. Keep in mind that it may take time to find your groove and establish a comfortable work-life balance. Be patient with yourself as you navigate this new chapter and don’t be afraid to make adjustments as necessary. Remember, flexibility is key in creating a successful work-from-home life.

Are you currently working on making the transition to a remote job? Let us know how it is going!

 

 

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Top Hard Skills for Remote Job Descriptions and Resumes

As the remote job market continues to expand, it is increasingly important for employers and job seekers alike to be aware of the hard skills necessary for success in this growing field. To ensure that a remote position is filled with an experienced and qualified individual, employers need to know which hard skills to ask for in a job description. On the other hand, job seekers should have an understanding of what hard skills they need to include on their resumes to demonstrate their capabilities.

Why Hard Skills are Important in Remote Positions

In remote positions, where the physical presence and direct supervision of employees may not be possible, hard skills become even more critical. Hard skills refer to the technical abilities and expertise required to perform specific tasks or roles effectively. These skills are tangible and measurable, providing employers with a clear understanding of an applicant’s capabilities. One of the primary reasons hard skills are important in remote positions is the level of independence and self-direction required in such roles. Remote employees often have to work autonomously and handle various responsibilities without constant guidance. Having the necessary hard skills ensures that they can tackle the job effectively and deliver results without constant supervision.

Additionally, remote work often involves collaboration and communication across different time zones and locations. Strong hard skills in areas such as project management, technical proficiency, and data analysis can help bridge any potential gaps in communication and ensure efficient and effective teamwork. Moreover, employers hiring for remote positions typically have a specific set of requirements that need to be fulfilled due to the unique nature of remote work. Including hard skills in the job description and on applicants’ resumes helps employers find candidates who possess the necessary qualifications to excel in a remote environment.

Key Differences Between Remote Job Descriptions and Traditional Job Descriptions

Remote job descriptions tend to emphasize the importance of self-discipline and self-motivation, as remote workers typically have less oversight than those in traditional office settings. Additionally, remote job descriptions often mention the need for strong communication skills, since remote work often relies on effective communication via video calls, instant messaging, and email.  

Remote job descriptions may also include language around the need for technical skills, such as proficiency in certain software or hardware that remote workers are likely to use. Finally, remote job descriptions may focus more heavily on an applicant’s ability to work independently and to meet deadlines, as remote work often requires more self-direction and self-management than traditional office positions. 

In contrast, traditional job descriptions may place more emphasis on skills such as collaboration, team building, and leadership, as these are typically more important in office settings where employees work in close proximity to one another.

Top Hard Skills to Include in Remote Job Descriptions

  1. Technical proficiency: Be sure to specify the technical proficiencies that are required for the role, such as experience with certain programs or systems.
  2. Time management: Seek out applicants who have a strong track record of managing their time effectively and delivering work on schedule.
  3. Communication: Be sure to look for applicants who are able to articulate their ideas clearly and work collaboratively with others via online channels.
  4. Problem-solving: Remote workers must be able to troubleshoot technical issues, identify roadblocks, and come up with creative solutions to keep projects moving forward. Look for candidates who have a history of proactive problem-solving in their previous roles.

Need some help creating the perfect job post? Take a look at our Small Business Concierge Services!

How to Highlight Hard Skills on Your Resume for Remote Positions

  1. Use bullet points: List out your hard skills, such as software proficiency, language fluency, or project management experience. This makes it easier for recruiters to quickly scan your resume and see your relevant skills.
  2. Quantify your accomplishments: When highlighting your hard skills, include specific examples of how you’ve used them in previous positions. For example, if you’re proficient in a specific software program, mention how you used it to improve a process or increase efficiency.
  3. Tailor your resume: Each remote job may have slightly different requirements for hard skills, so tailor your resume accordingly.
  4. Use keywords: Use relevant keywords throughout your resume, especially in the skills section, to make it easier for recruiters to find your resume during the screening process.

Need some help drafting a resume that shows off your skills? Our resume training services can help!

What hard skills are you noticing that are needed more in a remote workplace versus traditional? Reach out and let us know!

 

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Uncovering the Power of Project Managers in Your Small Business

Project managers are essential players in any business. They play a critical role in helping organizations meet their goals by overseeing projects from start to finish. But when it comes to small businesses, project managers can be a game-changer. From web design to podcast development, these skilled professionals can help businesses take their operations to the next level. If you do not have a project manager on staff currently, you should consider hiring one!

Defining the Role of a Project Manager

A project manager is the key figure responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects within a small business. They act as the central point of communication between different teams and stakeholders, and their role is to ensure that all aspects of a project are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standard. The project manager’s primary goal is to oversee all project activities, set clear project objectives and goals, allocate resources, and track the project’s progress to ensure that it stays on track. They are responsible for managing risks, issues, and conflicts, and they must also report on progress, budget, and milestones to stakeholders. 

Types of Projects Managed by Project Managers

Project managers can take charge of various types of projects, depending on the nature of the business and its goals. A few examples would be:

  • Summits: These are large-scale events that aim to bring together people with similar interests to discuss and share insights on a particular topic.
  • Web design: This includes website creation and maintenance, online marketing campaigns, and website optimization to improve user experience.
  • Course development: This entails developing and managing the production of educational courses, ranging from online courses to classroom courses.
  • Podcast development: With the rise of audio content, more and more businesses are venturing into podcast creation. Project managers can handle tasks such as scheduling recording sessions, editing and publishing podcasts, and developing marketing strategies.

In summary, project managers can help ensure that these projects are completed on time, within budget, and with high-quality results.

The Importance of Hiring a Project Manager for Your Small Business

Small businesses are often stretched thin, with limited resources to spare. As a result, it’s tempting to think that cutting corners on project management will help save time and money. However, this is often a false economy.  By hiring a project manager, you’re ensuring that every project in your business is run professionally, with clear objectives, milestones, and budgets. A good project manager can ensure that your team stays on track, that you meet your deadlines, and that your budget stays under control. 

Moreover, project managers bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. They know what works and what doesn’t, and can tailor their approach to fit your unique business needs. They can anticipate problems before they occur and find creative solutions to overcome them. 

Ultimately, hiring a project manager can help your small business save time, money, and energy, while ensuring that every project is completed to a high standard. By investing in the right project manager, you’re investing in the future of your business through the benefits they provide such as:

  • Improving project management
  • Helping your small business to stay organized. 
  • Providing valuable leadership to your small business team. 
  • Motivating and inspiring team members, and helping them to achieve their goals. 
  • Acting as a liaison between different departments, facilitating communication and collaboration.
  • Increasing productivity through a more streamlined operation.

If you need help hiring, check out our Small Business Concierge Services where we take care of everything for you so that you can focus on your company while we find your dream candidate!

 

 

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Are You a Job Seeker Feeling Frustrated? Tips for When You Don’t Hear Back

It can be disheartening to invest time and effort into applying for a job and never hear back, especially when you’re eager to start a new job. It’s important to remember that not every employer responds to all applicants; however, if you’re consistently not hearing back from any employers, it may be time to reevaluate your application materials. Let’s explore some tips for coping with not hearing back after applying and how to set realistic expectations for yourself as a job seeker:

Understanding the Hiring Process

The hiring process can be lengthy. Employers often receive a large number of applications for each job posting and it takes time for them to review each one. Additionally, there may be multiple rounds of interviews and assessments before a final decision is made. This means that even if you are a strong candidate, it may still take some time before you hear back.

Secondly, it is important to understand that not every employer will get back to you. It is a common practice for employers to only contact candidates who are selected for an interview or to let them know that the position has been filled. This means that if you do not hear back from an employer, it does not necessarily mean that your application was not strong. We encourage all employers to respond to applicants, especially those that have made it far through the hiring process, but unfortunately not all employers will respond. If you are worried about your application, you can always reach out to the company for a follow up.

Finally, it is important to remember that the hiring process can be subjective. Each employer has their own criteria for selecting candidates and what may be a strong application for one company may not be for another. Additionally, some companies use applicant tracking systems that filter out candidates who don’t meet certain qualifications or who don’t use certain keywords in their application materials. It is important not to take rejection personally and to keep applying to other opportunities. It’s also helpful to reevaluate your application materials and make sure they’re tailored to each job you apply for. With persistence and a little bit of luck, you’ll eventually land your dream job.

Reevaluating Your Application Materials

By taking a critical look at your materials, you’ll be better equipped to make any necessary changes and increase your chances of getting a call back from employers.

  1. Does your resume clearly showcase your skills and experience? 
  2. Are there any typos or grammatical errors?
  3. Is your cover letter tailored to the specific job you’re applying for?
  4. Employers often do a quick Google search on candidates before considering them for a position. Make sure your online presence is professional and appropriate.
  5. Are your references up-to-date and relevant?
  6. Are you using keywords from the job description in your application materials?

Tips for Moving Forward

It can be disheartening to not hear back from employers, but it’s important to maintain a positive mindset. Utilize your professional network to increase your chances of finding job opportunities. Attend industry events, connect with colleagues on LinkedIn, and reach out to friends or acquaintances who may have connections in your desired field. Networking can often lead to hidden job opportunities and help you stand out from the competition.

Most important of all, take this opportunity to reevaluate your application materials. Update your resume to highlight your most relevant skills and experiences. Customize your cover letter for each position to show that you’ve done your research and understand the company’s needs. Consider seeking feedback from our HR professionals on your resume, cover letter, and even your interview skills to ensure your materials are compelling and error-free. Additionally, you can use this time to invest in your personal and professional development. Take online courses, attend workshops, or pursue certifications that can strengthen your skillset and make you a more competitive candidate. We recommend our course Cultivate to set goals and work towards your dream job! Not only will this boost your confidence, but it will also make you more marketable to potential employers.

Don’t give up! Job searching can be a challenging process, but persistence is key. Continue applying to positions, following up with employers, and refining your approach. Remember that finding the right job takes time, and staying motivated and determined will ultimately lead you to success.

 

 

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