Job Advice

5 Steps to Finding a Job You Love With That’s Good HR

Love
Madison Schacht headshot.
Madison Schacht
Manager of Talent Acquisition
February 26, 2024
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You’ve probably heard the old adage, “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” During this month of love, That’s Good HR has five tips for finding a job you can love. Granted, you’ll still have to work – most people aren’t going to win the lottery or inherit a fortune from a previously unknown rich uncle. But if you do a little groundwork now, you can enjoy a job that’s fun, rewarding, and maybe even something you can love.

Landing a job you love can pay you back in more than just a salary and benefits. People who enjoy their jobs are more likely to be optimistic, motivated, faster learners and better decision makers. And while we all love our days off, Monday mornings are a lot easier when you’re going to do something you enjoy. If you don’t love your job, read on to find out how you can make a change. Remember, That’s Good HR specializes in matching people with jobs that fit their personalities and skill sets. Why not take a chance on loving your job?

Identify your passions

If you’re looking for a job you love, start by understanding what sparks excitement at work. Are you a numbers person who may be drawn to the field of accounting and finances? Or, are you a people person who may thrive in the HR world? Be brave with some of the hard questions. If you’re drawn to a profession that requires additional education, consider whether you’re at a point where you can take that leap. Some career changes don’t require another degree, however. At That’s Good HR, we’ve found that many temporary jobs are a great opportunity to learn new skills.

Love the salary potential – but don’t let it control your decision

Job seekers should always do their homework when it comes to salary ranges. You are the only one who really can decide how much money you need to meet your financial obligations. However, we caution people from focusing on a number and recommend looking at the overall picture. What other aspects of a job are important? Do you need a flexible schedule? Is there room for growth and promotion? A generous salary is nice, but if the job is a bad match, you may decide the extra dollars aren’t worth the increased stress.

Seek advice from other people

Sometimes it helps to get outside ourselves, especially when we’re thinking about career opportunities. Do you have a mentor or a colleague you trust to give you honest feedback? Ask others what they consider to be your greatest strengths and weaknesses. You may think you talk a lot, but they may see an emerging leader.

Find out what other people love about their own jobs

If you’ve been stuck in an unfulfilling job, you may not realize there are happy working people in this world. Talk to those people who seem content at work. Harness the power of networking. If you know someone who knows someone who works in a field that seems interesting, ask for an introduction. Join local professional organizations. Find out when your local college alumni club meets, and get to know other people. Every time you expand your networking circle, you’re increasing potential leads for your next career move.

Partner with That’s Good HR to find a job you love

At That’s Good HR, we believe matching the right person to the right job is our sweet spot. We’re more than just a staffing firm. We put people first. When you submit a resume or apply for a job on our job board, one of our trained recruiters will check it out. If you seem like a potentially good fit for one of our openings, we’ll respond to continue the conversation. At That’s Good HR, we invest the time to know our job candidates, as well as our employer clients, so we can identify successful professional matches. It’s not just about staffing. It’s about finding the right people for the best job opportunities within Indianapolis and the surrounding areas.

Don’t settle for a job you don’t love. Submit your resume now to That’s Good HR and find a job that fits your passions and skills.

Job Advice

How Do You Find a Mentor at Work?

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January 22, 2024
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January is National Mentoring Month, a time to reflect on the benefits and importance of a mentor relationship at work. At That’s Good HR, we know a few things about mentors. Our role includes acting as mentors for candidates who need a little help navigating the hiring landscape. Our typical candidate relationship includes conversations about goals and guidance on tasks like writing an effective resume and nailing the interview.

But mentoring continues within the workplace, where these pivotal relationships can help new employees understand their industry, their company, and even their coworkers. Let’s look at what a mentor can do and how you can find an appropriate mentor to help you professionally succeed.

What is a mentor?

A mentorship is a two-way relationship between an experienced professional, or mentor, and a less experienced person, or mentee, in that same professional setting. Mentors are often informal relationships that grow organically as an established employee takes the newer one under his or her wing, so to speak. But it can also be a formal relationship that companies rely on to ensure that newcomers have a point person who knows the company’s standard operating procedures and can offer inside information on what to do when the coffeepot runs dry or a holiday is coming up.

Regardless, a good mentor has the mentee’s best interests in mind. A mentor can keep an eye on the mentee and offer valuable feedback on current projects. Mentors might rely on regular lunches or meetings to ensure that they’re on the same page regarding long-term and short-term professional goals. They may serve as a safe sounding board for new ideas or a person who can be relied on for the hard truth when necessary.

Ultimately, the mentor relationship benefits both parties. Mentees can expand their professional knowledge, while mentors have a chance to make a dramatic difference in workplace camaraderie and chemistry. There’s also a chance to learn from each other along the way.

How do you find a good business mentor?

Remember kindergarten, when you walked up to another child on the playground and said, “Let’s be friends?” The mentor relationship isn’t quite so easy, but it can fall together if you find the right person.

Keep an eye out for a potential mentor. A good mentor is someone who has the attributes you want to emulate in the workplace. That may be your direct supervisor, but it can also be someone else within the department who possesses those soft skills you admire, like staying organized or ahead of schedule.

Stay informal – at first. Look for ways to work with the other person professionally. Volunteer for that next project or offer to do some of the grunt work. See how the other person works under pressure, and how they handle professional success.

Set up a meeting. A mentor relationship works best when both parties are invested. Consider asking the other person for coffee or lunch so you have a chance to talk outside of the office. Be prepared to talk about why you would like a professional mentor and why you think this person could be the right match. Talk about professional goals and ask if the other person would commit to regular check-ins and other logistics. While this may be intimidating on the surface, remember you are giving the other person a huge compliment. And, if the potential mentor isn’t ready to commit, be gracious and make sure they know that you still consider them to be a great role model.

Establish expectations. Talk about how often you want to meet and what you would like to accomplish in a mentor relationship. Ask the other person for input and be open to something different from what you expect.

Remember to say thank you. Be proactive with your gratitude. Jot down little notes after each meeting reinforcing the important points and thanking the mentor for his or her time. Drop off a gift card for lunch occasionally and always offer to pick up the tab when you’re meeting for coffee.

Most successful businesspeople can name at least a few mentors who helped them along the way. Enhance your own professional journey when you open yourself to guidance, feedback, and even occasional criticism from a professional mentor.

Are you ready to find your next professional position? That’s Good HR can help match you with openings that fit your unique skillset. Our recruiting staff will support you in the job search and help you hear the words “You’re hired” in no time!

Seasonal

Tips for Surviving the Holiday Season When You are Unemployed

unemployed holiday
Madison Schacht headshot.
Madison Schacht
Manager of Talent Acquisition
November 30, 2023
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It feels like everyone around you is in celebration mode, but your world has stopped, thanks to a dreaded pink slip. Being unemployed is never easy, and facing the holiday season without a steady paycheck can leave you with a heavy heart. But That’s Good HR has some suggestions for celebrating on a budget – and finding a job that will help you start the new year right.

Holiday traditions don’t have to cost a lot of money

Some holiday traditions come with a hefty price tag. Consider changing your plans a bit this year, so you can keep the holiday spirit without emptying your wallet.

Check out your local amateur productions. Central Indiana’s high school student bodies are full of talent and goodwill. Many of our local schools have spectacular performances over the holidays, from vocal to instrumental. They also offer lower price points than their professional counterparts. Want to see the Nutcracker? Check out what the local dance schools are doing.

Keep an eye out for free. Do a quick web search of “free holiday events near me” to find out what’s happening nearby. For instance, Westfield in Lights on December 2 offers photos with Santa, live reindeer, and a tree lighting ceremony. The Athenaeum’s Christkindlmarkt has live music throughout the season. It’s time to introduce your kids to holiday polka music!

Pare down the gift giving budget. It may be tempting to put all your purchases on a credit card, but we recommend you show some restraint. Did you know that the average holiday credit card debt was $1,549 last year? If you’re struggling with unemployment, you’ll want to minimize your debt. Instead, have a frank talk with your friends and family, letting them know that you may be sitting out the gift exchange this year. Or, put your talents to work with homemade goodies. Your friends may be thrilled to receive a container of homemade soup to stash in their freezer and thaw in January when they just don’t feel like cooking dinner.

Be ready to accept generosity from others. We know this is tough, especially for people who pride themselves on being independent and self-reliant. If your parents say they still plan on buying gifts for everyone even though you told them you don’t have a budget to reciprocate, accept their gifts in the spirit they’re offered. Next year, maybe you’ll be in a place where you can be the big spender.

Hiring doesn’t take a holiday

At That’s Good HR, the hiring doesn’t necessarily slow down just because it’s the busy holiday season. Companies are still looking for talented individuals to fill open positions. Check out the That’s Good HR job board! It may be tempting to take a winter break with the kids over the holiday, but we recommend setting aside time each day for a job search:

  • Update your resume
  • Work on you cover letter
  • Reach out to friends and colleagues for networking leads

Consider temporary employment

Temporary positions are some of our favorite positions to fill at That’s Good HR. Temp jobs offer people a chance to learn about a company or industry without making a long-term commitment. These positions are a great opportunity when you are unemployed. You can still interview for permanent positions, and you can talk about the current job when you are interviewing. A temporary job helps you meet new people – and that can lead to a richer network, new skills, new opportunities and maybe even a permanent job within the company or in a new space.

Remember, in the words of the esteemed Dr. Seuss, the holidays don’t have to “come from a store.” Celebrate the spirit of the season this year and let That’s Good HR help you find a position that matches your skillset. Send us a copy of your resume now, and one of our recruiters will review it and reach out if we have any open positions matching your credentials. At That’s Good HR, we don’t take a holiday break from staffing. Reach out now to start a conversation.

HR Insights

Thanks a Lot: How to Show Your Appreciation at Work

thanks
Greta Cline, CFO
Greta Cline
Partner, CFO/COO
November 14, 2023
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How do you say “thanks” at work? We’re moving into the holidays, when the atmosphere around the office becomes a little more festive and you begin to wonder how – and if – you should offer some sort of gift or token of your appreciation. At That’s Good HR, we have the scoop on what’s appropriate for gestures of gratitude and how you can convey your appreciation to your employees, coworkers, and colleagues.

First things first – who gets the thanks?

Ideally, company gratitude flows in many directions during the business year. Have you ever received a heartfelt thank-you note from a coworker after you completed a difficult team project? How did it make you feel? Jotting down a few words on a Post-it®️ and a giving you coworker a cup of their favorite coffee can make them feel valued and part of the team.

Things get a little trickier when it comes to the holidays. As we approach the season of gift-giving, people may be wondering if they should be offering tangible items of appreciation to their coworkers or employees. What about management? Have you been knitting your boss’ blanket since January? We hope not, because traditional etiquette says that gifts should flow down in the corporate power structure. In other words, your boss might be handing out gift cards to thank employees during the holiday season, but you shouldn’t feel obligated to reciprocate.

Coworkers, on the other hand, may have fun exchanging inexpensive gifts during the holiday season. Our advice? Ask your management to establish firm guidelines now for gift giving and stick to them. If employees are exchanging $25 gifts, stay at that price point. Going overboard can make people feel uncomfortable, and that’s counterproductive to the message you want to convey. (As always, nobody should be forced to participate in any gift exchange.)

How to convey your thanks through words

In this season of thankfulness, we recommend starting with the written word. Emails are great – and they’re handy when it comes to your remote colleagues – but a handwritten note of thanks indicates that you thought the recipient was worth the time it took to write a message and seal the envelope. So, what should you be writing on those little notes? Even if you’re not much of a wordsmith, here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Focus on their strengths: “I appreciate the way you always work hard to make our team projects a success” or “Your cheerful attitude is contagious and keeps me smiling even during the challenging periods.”
  • Use good examples: “You always bring exciting ideas to our meetings” or “Your extra work made our last project shine.”
  • Add some motivation: Everyone can use a little inspiration, especially when they are struggling. Validating those challenges and offering a boost may go a long way: “The last month hasn’t been easy, but know you are appreciated for all you bring to the workplace.”

OK, but what if I’m the boss?

When you’re in management, gratitude takes on another layer of meaning. Those notes of validation are great during the regular business year, but the holidays have you thinking it’s time to go the extra mile. While it may be tempting to default to the staff pizza party, we know you can do a lot better than that at conveying your appreciation. Consider these options for giving thanks to your employees who make your business a success:

Cold hard cash: Cash is impersonal, right? Tell that to the employee who’s struggling to keep up with his expenses during the holiday season. A little extra money in the paycheck says “thank you” better than a slice of stuffed crust pepperoni pizza with extra cheese.

The gift of time: A day off can be a gamechanger for an overstressed employee. Not every company has the flexibility of offering an extra day – or even an extra half-day – to employees, but if yours does, consider offering it as a token of your gratitude.

Special activities: Team-building activities can lead to employee camaraderie and cooperation. Before you book the bowling alley, consider combining the spirit of the season with the season of gratitude. Ask employees to suggest favorite charities and organizations that need your help during the holiday season and organize an outing for anyone who’s interested.

How about a nice coffee mug?

Go online and Google “gifts for business,” and you’ll see pages and pages of gift ideas and tokens you can purchase to show your appreciation. Be careful, though. You don’t want your recipients to believe they’re only worthy of some small token. Our advice? Make it personal and fun. Spring for cookies with the company logo in the icing. Pick the nice water bottles over the cheap plastic ones. Ask yourself if you’d like to receive this same gift and be honest. If you know that tchotchke is going to wind up in the junk drawer, skip it and consider something else.

There’s a lot of emotion and appreciation wrapped up in a thank you gesture. Make sure yours is sincere and heartfelt during this season of gratitude.

Hiring resources

5 Reasons Why You Need to Partner with a Staffing Agency

5 Reasons Why You Need to Partner With a Staffing Agency
Mary Springer headshot
Mary Springer
Partner
November 3, 2023
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What’s so great about a staffing agency like That’s Good HR? Let’s count the ways. In today’s difficult job market, employers struggle to find the candidate who meets their criteria. Candidates struggle to find the job that fits their needs. It is a challenging task that we at That’s Good HR have a passion for.  We love connecting great candidates with reputable Indianapolis area companies!

As we approach the end of 2023, companies like yours need a full staff to handle additional year-end tasks. That’s why now is a perfect time to call out the benefits of partnering with That’s Good HR. Think about the behind-the-scenes tasks that must take place when a job is listed.  Someone must craft the job description and decide what qualities are essential. Someone else must sift through the candidates, who are representing themselves through resumes and completed applications. Then there’s the interview process and the follow-up actions that may be made to ensure that the right professional match comes through.

Add in additional challenges like confidential job searches and tight deadlines, and it’s easy to see why the job search process can be stressful for all involved parties. Fortunately, That’s Good HR is your essential staffing partner, helping both candidates and companies find each other in today’s challenging hiring market.  Check out these 5 benefits to partnering with a staffing agency like That’s Good HR:

1. A staffing agency like That’s Good HR can expedite the hiring and staffing process

Some companies don’t have a separate HR department to handle duties like job listings and interviews. When someone leaves during a busy period of the work calendar, company leadership may have to choose between focusing on the job search or asking the staff to take on the extra duties, which is rarely a long-term solution.

That’s Good HR starts the candidate search as soon as someone calls us with a job opening. We strive to provide interviewed, pre-qualified candidates within 24-48 hours. That means we have discussed your opening with the candidate, and they are interested in the position. If we are going to miss that goal, we meet to assemble the why and then discuss what changes might need to be made to attract talent. Every day you try to operate with an open position is one where the work might not be done. Having a staffing agency partner means companies and employees can start thriving together as soon as possible.

2. We maintain a database of potential job candidates

That’s Good HR has more than 23 years of hiring experience in the Indianapolis area. Consequently, we have established relationships with reliable, professional job seekers. When an employer reaches out with an opening, we reach out to qualified candidates who have worked with us in the past. We also have a constantly growing list of potential candidates who reach out via our website every day. And, we invest thousands of hours with our trained recruiters who recruit and interview candidates from a variety of network sources. We do our homework on both the employer and the potential employee. This gives both parties an inside edge in the hiring process.

3. A staffing agency may know of jobs – and candidates – that you won’t see listed elsewhere

Occasionally, a company may need to perform a confidential job search. Maybe a current employee plans to leave, but the company doesn’t want that information to be public yet. Or maybe they are looking to replace an employee, and they don’t want that employee to see their job listed on an online job board. That’s Good HR can step in and facilitate the confidential interview and hiring process. We can list the job. We can use our facilities for the interview process. This ensures that the job is filled when it’s time for the current employee to move on.

4. We maintain relationships with pivotal companies and candidates

You’ve probably heard the phrase that it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. When companies or job seekers partner with That’s Good HR, they are plugging into a network of players who can create magic when they work together. Occasionally an employer may call us with an urgent need to fill an open position. Our recruiters already understand what type of person works well in that company’s environment. We can recall certain candidates who possess those skills and personalities and see if they’re in the market for something new. We really are professional matchmakers in that regard.

5. We offer feedback after the interview or initial hiring phase

A job search can be challenging for both the job seeker and the employer. It can sometimes feel like you’ve been searching for weeks or months without getting an offer. Or it can be frustrating to hire someone only to discover that they’re not a good fit. That’s Good HR can often provide insights you don’t get when you’re navigating the hiring process on your own. If a company is struggling to land a candidate, That’s Good HR can query candidates after the interviews to find out valuable feedback from a candidate’s perspective. They can also gather feedback for job seekers who may wonder why they can’t seem to secure an offer, so the candidate can make the necessary changes to become more marketable. We’ll stick around after the initial hiring process, to handle any onboarding or communication challenges.

At That’s Good HR, we believe in going beyond what you can expect from a staffing agency. In fact, a review of our recent employer feedback forms indicated that 83% believed That’s Good HR’s processes for submitting resumes, scheduling interviews and communication are better than the competition. We’re especially proud to say that 100% responded that they would refer That’s Good HR to others.

Staffing agencies like That’s Good HR are essential job partners in the hiring process. Whether you’re a job seeker who is open to new professional challenges or an employer who needs to fill an opening quickly. You can trust That’s Good HR to be your hiring specialist.

Employees: Send us your resume at https://thatsgoodhr.com/job-seekers/

Employers: Contact us at https://thatsgoodhr.com/employers/ to discuss open positions you need to fill now.

HR Insights

7 Questions You Should Ask During a Job Interview

Questions to ask during a job interview
Madison Schacht headshot.
Madison Schacht
Manager of Talent Acquisition
October 25, 2023
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You have probably read that it’s a job seeker’s market out there right now. At That’s Good HR, we’re seeing it play out in the Indianapolis area as well. But that doesn’t mean candidates should expect to skate through your job interview. The interview process is the right time for you to evaluate the company’s culture and find out if the job will meet your expectations.

When the interviewer asks you if you have any questions, don’t waste this ideal opportunity. Instead, use the interview to dig into the details about the job. When you work with That’s Good HR to find a job, you’re already at an advantage because our recruiters have worked to connect you with companies that match your skill set. Now it’s time to make sure the company matches your personality and career goals as well.

How – and when – to ask the right questions

Always, always, always be prepared with at least three questions to ask during the interview process. Asking questions shows that you are engaged in the conversation and have done a little homework beforehand. However, you also want to put your communications skills to work. Be part of the conversation, listening to what the interview has to say before you jump in with your questions. It’s natural to start working on your response, but the interviewer deserves your full attention.

Are you worried about forgetting pertinent details? Have a notebook nearby with your prepared questions and any notes you jot down during the interview. This ensures you don’t miss anything important, and it indicates that you are interested during the interview process. Sometimes the opportunity for questions will come up during the conversation, and that’s great. But almost every interviewer will specifically ask if you have any questions of your own. Here’s your chance to shine – and to find out if this job is a match for you!

7 questions to ask during an interview

The interview has gone well, and now it’s your turn to ask the questions. Use the remaining interview time to fill in any blanks that weren’t covered in the interview. The questions below can be a good starting point, although we caution jobseekers to avoid asking about something that’s already been covered. Use your notes to finish strong and find out if this is the right job for you.

  • What is the highest priority for this position in the next six months? Year?

It’s important to ensure that there’s not a disconnect between the employer’s priorities and your ultimate career goals. For example, if you are seeking a job that will provide training and opportunities for management, you should confirm that the employer is on the same page.

  • What are three key qualities you are seeking in a successful candidate?

Listen carefully to the answer – here’s a good time to use that notebook so you can take notes. Reinforce the answer with your own answer. “I am excited to hear that you’re looking for someone who is organized. In my previous position, I devised a filing method that improved our ability to locate client information quickly.” Give examples of how you’re a good fit for the position.

  • Describe a typical day in this job.

When you’re starting a new job, you want to at least have an idea of what is expected of you. Make sure you understand what’s involved in a typical day on the job, so there aren’t any surprises.

  • Could you tell me about your training for this position?

Some people are very comfortable jumping into a new job and figuring things out as they go along. Others prefer a formal training period with a mentor or someone who will be available for questions. Find out which is part of the new job description. What skills are you expected to bring to the position? What new skills will you be expected to learn?

  • What is the culture like here?

Company culture is a vital part of any organization. When you ask this question, you are exploring the company’s working environment and deciding if you’re a good fit. Do employees tend to collaborate or work individually on projects? Is the dress code casual or formal? How do managers handle requests for time off or work/life balance concerns? There are no wrong answers, just insights on whether this job matches your unique professional personality.

  • Why do you enjoy working here?

This may seem like a personal question, but it’s a great way to find out what it’s like to work for the company. You can also discover benefits you haven’t already discussed during the interview, like quarterly team-bonding activities or community outreach projects.

  • If you decide I am a suitable candidate, what are our next steps?

Go ahead and start thinking about the next steps. How much time do you need to give your current employer? What sort of paperwork will the new employer need before you start? When should you expect to hear from the employer? Does the employer respond even if they decide to look at other candidates?

A job interview may seem like a one-way conversation, but the answers are important to both the employer and the job seeker. Employees are more likely to stay at a job with a positive working environment. You are seeking a job that aligns with your own mission and values, as well as your current skill set. Asking the right questions can put you on a path for career progression and growth.

That’s Good HR focuses on matching jobseekers with some of the best Indianapolis area employers. Send us your resume, and our recruiters will review it and tell you if we think any of our currently available jobs are a good fit. You’ll have a chance to talk first to a That’s Good HR recruiter, who can help you prepare for the interview and find your next hot job. Check out our job board, or find out more about That’s Good HR here.

Job Advice

Facing Unemployment? Ready For a Change?

Unemployment
Mary Springer headshot
Mary Springer
Partner
September 26, 2023
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Being unemployed isn’t easy, but it’s something most people face during their careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, older workers reported more than five separate unemployment spells during their lifetimes. In addition to stressing your wallet, being unemployed can also trigger feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, and hopelessness. But the good news is that you’re not alone in the job search! That’s Good HR is here to help people who are seeking their next professional opportunity.

The top causes of unemployment

There are almost as many reasons for unemployment as there are people who are currently unemployed. Sometimes people leave their jobs because they’re caring for a child or an elderly parent. Some receive the dreaded “pink slip” that tells them they’re no longer going to be employed by their company. Some people leave their jobs with a valid reason, only to discover they’re ready to return to the workplace in a few months.

Roughly speaking, unemployment can be traced to economic recessions and depressions, technological improvements and job outsourcing. In addition, some people will intentionally choose to leave their jobs. Not every job is a good fit, and we hear different stories from people who come to us for job placement:

  • They’re bored. We always advocate for being proactive and talking to management – there may be other positions in the company that can light that spark again. But if nothing is available, employees may decide to look elsewhere.
  • They’ve maxed out on pay. Some positions have a salary cap that is non-negotiable.
  • There are few opportunities for growth. If a current position doesn’t have any pathways for professional development, employees may need to take matters into their own hands and create a new journey.
  • Coworkers are leaving. If colleagues are handing in their resignations at a pace that seems faster than normal, that can be a red flag.
  • They’re worried about losing a job. Layoffs are still a thing, even in today’s competitive hiring market. Also, not every job is going to be a great fit for every employee. There’s a reason why we say “The Match Matters” at That’s Good HR. We work to place people in positions that will maximize their skills and talents and keep both the employee and the employer happy and satisfied.
  • Their mental and physical health is suffering. Professional stress can manifest itself in digestive upsets, headaches, anxiety, depression, or several other conditions. Switching jobs may be just what the doctor ordered.

That’s Good HR can put the pieces back together

Regardless of the reason, being unemployed can be a distressing period. While it’s tempting to send a resume to every opening you can unearth on the internet and job boards, you may be more successful when you partner with That’s Good HR. As a top Indianapolis area staffing agency with more than 20 years of experience, we specialize in placing candidates in positions with top local employers. Yes, our name is That’s Good HR, but our available jobs include positions in administrative, accounting, customer service, medical administration, and human resources.

We take pride in going the extra mile for our candidates and clients. When our recruiters connect with clients, they first take the time to have a conversation. Once they’re familiar with your story and skillset, they will work to match you with employers who are looking for someone just like you. This personal approach ensures that we’re doing more than filling open positions in the Indianapolis job market. We’re making good matches, which includes prepping candidates for an interview and following up to ensure the relationship works.

If you’re unemployed – or if you’re ready for a professional change –  check out what’s listed on our job board. Or, submit your resume now, and we’ll review it and get in touch if you’re a good match for one of our open positions. Don’t let a fear of change keep you from reaching your true professional potential. Reach out to That’s Good HR now to start writing the next chapter.

Job Advice

Bridging the Gap Between In-Office Requirements and Remote Job Preferences

Remote v office
Greta Cline, CFO
Greta Cline
Partner, CFO/COO
August 11, 2023
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Have you heard of “The Great Compromise?” Three years after the Covid pandemic forced many people to work from home, companies are now wrestling with the challenge of bringing employees back to the office. As someone uniquely situated in the middle between employers and job candidates, That’s Good sees both sides of this emerging issue. Employers are increasingly looking for people who will come to the office. Candidates, on the other hand, are seeking to work from home in a remote or hybrid position that combines at-home hours with in-office requirements.

As large companies like JPMorgan Chase, Amazon and Salesforce are looking at return-to-office policies, many of our local employer clients are considering those same decisions. Trends suggest that people are returning to their offices, at least part of the time. About 59% of full-time employees were on site full-time, according to data from May 2023 Work From Home Research.  A study by the Pew Research Center indicates that about a third of all workers with jobs that can be done from home are staying home. This is down from 43% in January of 2022 and 55% in October of 2020.

Why do employees want to work from home?

During the That’s Good HR recruiting process, we often hear from potential employees who want remote work. The main reason? Multi-tasking. People like the freedom of being able to throw a load of laundry in during a mid-morning break. Remote work also offers flexibility when it comes to scheduling healthcare and other appointments during the workday.

Digital.com recently surveyed 1,000 remote workers to find out why they wanted to remain working from home. Some of the answers seemed a bit frivolous:

  • 72% liked to be able to nap or exercise during the day.
  • 73% wanted the option of watching TV while they work.

But the most important factor cited in the survey was caring for children and saving money and time on the commute. Granted, in our experience most work-from-home jobs are not a good fit for someone who has very small children or infants at home. But, it does provide options for parents whose older children wake up with a fever or need transportation to an after-school activity.

Many people also cite productivity as a factor for working from their basements instead of in an office full of people. Home doesn’t have distractions like in-person meetings where you spend the first 15 minutes waiting for the latecomers to show up. Workers aren’t tempted to stand around the office kitchen sharing personal stories while they enjoy their morning coffees. There are fewer distracting conversations to be overheard from the other cubicles. However, at least one study this month suggests that productivity drops when employees work from home full-time.

Why do employers want people in the office?

There is something to be said for working with your colleagues in person in an office setting. When Disney CEO Bib Iger called his employees back to the office earlier this year, he stressed its advantages:

“As you’ve heard me say many times, creativity is the heart and soul of who we are and what we do at Disney. And in a creative business like ours, nothing can replace the ability to connect, observe, and create with peers that comes from being physically together, nor the opportunity to grow professionally by learning from leaders and mentors,” Iger said in a memo.

It turns out that those break room conversations can be more than just idle chatter to begin a workday. Working together in an office brings what’s called a discovery advantage, where those informal conversations lead to new and provocative ideas. There is also an energy that’s created when people are together in person that cannot necessarily be duplicated over Zoom calls. Younger workers especially can miss out on the feedback and mentorship that can help build a successful career.

Where does that leave us?

At That’s Good HR, we appreciate the arguments for both sides of the remote work coin. This is why we encourage employers and candidates to consider what their views may cost them. In our experience, a candidate who requires a 100% remote position is less likely to be matched with open positions on our job board. Employers who are demanding that people work in the office five days a week may miss out on qualified candidates when they take this all-or-nothing stance.

At the end of the day, we want both sides to be realistic. Working from home can offer great flexibility for someone who has a long commute or wants to be available to drive the soccer carpool, but it also robs the employee of opportunities to converse and coordinate with their coworkers. Reconsider why you only want to do remote work – are you shortchanging yourself and limiting potential growth opportunities?

Employers who want to see their employees’ faces in the office are challenged to transform the office into the place everyone wants to be. It’s not about having treats in the break room, although that’s a nice perk. Today’s employers can make office hours worthwhile by having brainstorming sessions and activities designed to build a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. At That’s Good HR, we’ve seen it happen. Let us know how we can help you build that environment within your office.

Of course, employers also may want to consider a hybrid work model, which allows employees to craft a flexible work schedule that includes remote hours and mandatory in-office requirements. The employment landscape is changing, and local employers and candidates will benefit from a staffing partner like That’s Good HR. Our motto is “The Match Matters,” and it’s one we take to heart. We believe our mission goes beyond reading resumes and sending a list of names to employers. Our staff invests the time in understanding what our employer clients and job candidates need. We’ll also offer guidance for navigating today’s evolving work environment. Trust your staffing and employment needs to someone with more than two decades’ experience working in Indianapolis and the surrounding areas.

That’s Good HR is here to help job candidates and employers bridge the gap and find solutions that work for them. How can we work for you? Reach out now at https://thatsgoodhr.com/contact.

Job Advice

Overcoming Red Flags on a Resume

Red flags
Greta Cline, CFO
Greta Cline
Partner, CFO/COO
July 17, 2023
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Does your resume contain red flags that might make employers think twice about following up with you? Something as simple as a typo can put your resume in the virtual trash pile, while a spotty employment history can suggest that you’re not the reliable type of person the company is seeking. Fortunately, you can take the necessary steps to address these red flags now to ensure that potential employers are given the green flag to follow up with you.

Let’s look at some common resume red flags and strategies for turning them green.

Sloppy resume

Why it’s a problem: A resume riddled with typos, errors or formatting issues suggests that the person behind the resume is sloppy or careless as well.

How can you fix it? Start by taking a hard look at your resume. Ask a couple of friends to look it over as well to identify misspellings or typos that can stand out like, well, red flags. If you’re already working with That’s Good HR, our recruiters can also offer input on your resume and ensure it’s ready to be shared professionally.

Multiple career changes

Why it’s a problem: When hiring managers bring in new employees, they are investing time and money to train them and integrate them into the team. When a potential employee’s job history has multiple job changes and gaps in the job history, the hiring manager may be concerned about tenure.

How can you fix it? Honesty and transparency can mean the difference between being called in for an interview or being immediately rejected by a potential employer. Use your cover letter or application email to fill in the empty spaces on your resume. Did the Covid pandemic force you to take on additional dependent care tasks? Did you opt to switch jobs because you found something that was better suited to your skillset? Or were you enticed to move to another company because it offered you a higher salary? Be honest about your career journey. Potential employers are trying to make informed decisions about job candidates. Give them the information they need.

Inconsistencies

Why it’s a problem: Your resume must reflect your job history and current skills. If you are listing something on a resume, you need to be prepared to illustrate your experience and abilities.

How can you fix it? Keep your resume fresh and updated. Each time you’re in the job market, you’re representing a different part of your career journey. If it’s been a while since you’ve worked with certain software or platforms, you may not be as comfortable as you used to be. Resist the urge to paint a picture of yourself that doesn’t match your reality. You’re looking for a job that matches your skill set.

An unprofessional social media presence

Why it’s a red flag: It’s 2023. Your online media presence is easily accessible and gives potential employers a glimpse of who you are like beyond what you list on a resume. A social media presence that is highly unprofessional will cause potential employers to pause on moving your resume forward.

How can you fix it? Make sure your social media is job search ready. Are you still using the cute email address you made when you were 14? Prospective employers might raise their eyebrows at ilovejustinbieber78982734@aol.com. Search yourself online to see what comes up, and ask yourself if what you see matches the job positions you are applying for.

What if you’re on the hiring side of resume red flags?

If you’re tasked with finding the best candidates, you know that it’s still a job seeker market out there. Resume red flags that might have doomed a candidate even a few years ago may no longer be the automatic disqualifier. Keep these points in mind as you’re reviewing resumes:

Today’s young employees are different. Generation Z brings unique talents and trait that will reshape the business world in the next decade. They also have different work habits than the traditional workforce that’s been around for a while. For instance, they like to work from home, and they’re much more willing to look for a new job if they think there’s something better out there.

Uncover pertinent information with the right questions.  The last few years have been challenging, to say the least. If a promising employee has work history gaps, offer them a chance to explain by asking pertinent questions:

  • What did you do during the months of April-October 2021?
  • What did you learn about yourself during that time?

Have a strategy in place for employee development. In today’s hiring market, employers often must be strategic about developing and retaining good employees. Company culture matters. So does a strong onboarding process. Retaining employees is often cheaper and less time-consuming than hiring replacements. Invest in them early, and you’ll see a return in job skills and company loyalty.

Resume red flags don’t have to put a halt to the job search process. When you take the time to address these factors, you may find that the right professional match is waiting for you. That’s Good HR can help job seekers and employers find each other in this challenging and sometimes stressful job market. How can we help you?

HR Insights

Be a Better Communicator at Work

Madison Schacht headshot.
Madison Schacht
Manager of Talent Acquisition
June 28, 2023
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June is Effective Communications Month, and it’s a good time to work on your communicator skills. After all, effective workplace communication can translate to better working conditions. One study suggests that professional teams who communicate effectively can improve their productivity by up to 25 percent! Are poor communication skills sabotaging your professional prospects? That’s Good HR has some tips for upping your communication game and ensuring your voice is heard in the workplace.

Listen up!

Good communication starts with being a good listener. When you’re on the receiving end of a conversation, how well are you really listening to what the other person is saying? There’s a term called “active listening,” and it’s a skill that can serve you well in the business world. Active listening has several components that work together to ensure that you’re actively participating in the conversation.

Pay attention to what the other person is saying. It’s natural to start working on our response. That’s unfair to the other person, who deserves your complete attention.

Use non-verbal communication to demonstrate your attention. Your body language makes a difference. Keep your expression neutral and make sure your posture is open and inviting. Put your phone away – it’s too tempting to check it when you hear a text notification.

Provide appropriate feedback. If you’re not sure where the other person is going in the conversation, ask for clarification. The phrase “I hear you saying” can give you a chance to affirm that you’re interpreting the conversation correctly.

Stay calm. Even if the conversation is triggering strong emotions, a calm response will facilitate communication better than an angry one.

Practice good communicator etiquette

Time is precious at work, so make the most of each conversation. Good communication etiquette ensures that others interpret your message correctly and can cut down on misunderstanding:

Be clear and concise. Workplace communication doesn’t necessarily require a period of small talk before you arrive at the point you want to make. Include the necessary information to help the other person understand what you need.

Say what you mean. There’s no room for passive aggressive behaviors at the workplace. Asking your coworkers if you can come to lunch with them is much more effective than mumbling “Nobody ever invites me to lunch” under your breath.

Don’t interrupt or talk over people. Give the other person the same type of respect you want for yourself. This goes back to the active listening techniques described above. Use your communication skills to reinforce your commitment to the work team.

Know when to write it out – and when to talk

In today’s technology-heavy world, many people are programmed to communicate via texts or emails. A text can be a time-saver, but you also can lose the important nuance that accompanies the conversational tone of a face-to-face discussion. Emails are a great method of sharing updates and keeping your coworkers in the loop, but a live conversation – either in person or on the phone – ensures that you’re getting the response you need in a timely manner. How many times has a work project hit pause because nobody replied to your email? Pick up the phone and get things started again. On the other hand, written communication is essential for record keeping. If you want some sort of proof that a conversation occurred, get it in writing.

Reach out to your remote coworkers

Remote work is becoming standard in many workplaces, with as many as 27 percent of U.S. employees now working remotely. If you’re working remotely, stay tied in with the team by regularly checking in. It can be as simple as a morning update to tell your colleagues what you’re working on and how you might be able to work together to make it better. If you’re working on-site and an important discussion is taking place, involve your remote colleagues via a phone or video call.

Communicate good news and gratitude

Did a coworker go above and beyond to help you reach a deadline? Is a colleague hitting it out of the park on a new project? Jot down a few words and leave a note of gratitude on her desk.  Or, applaud him publicly for his efforts during the next team meeting. People like to know they’re appreciated. Effective communication can ensure they do.

When you work on your professional workplace skills, you’re opening the door for increased engagement and productivity at work. Stay connected to your coworkers and your workplace with regular, valuable communication.

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