Never used a private recruitment agency before?

We act as a “go-between” and can facilitate your progress to a shortlist. We do this by carefully assessing your skills, experience and qualifications and how these match up to the advertised position. Acting on behalf of an employer, we will scrutinise your application for best “fit”. That means that we will be evaluating your appearance, presentation and professionalism. This may be achieved through interviews and testing.  Most importantly, check that your Resume is up to scratch! does it match what the employer is looking for? is it getting you an interview? have you double-checked it for any errors? Print one out and see how it looks… does it appear professional? A resume is your “sales flier” and if it does not “sell” you, it is letting you down…… we rely heavily on first impressions and often this comes through to us in the form of the resume. Take your time making sure the resume is perfect before pressing “send”. Don’t know how to write a resume? we do offer this service, please call 026583822 to enquire.

Ivana Agapiou
Eather Recruitment Pty Ltd

The post Private Recruitment Agencies – how to use them appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

HUGE DIFFERENCES between agencies – how can you manage to get them to work more effectively for you?

We often field requests from job seekers who have very high expectations of what a recruitment agency can deliver for them. There is a distinct difference between an Employment Agency and a Recruitment Agency. Firstly, recruiters tend to work from the employer back. That is, they gather  the job description and specifications along with the brief from Management and then go to market in search of the “right fit” candidates. Many recruiters do not work for the job seeker /candidate who is needing employment. There are many applicants/candidates and often not enough jobs to go around. If the job fits these applicants then, and only then, will they be referred to positions.  It is often up to the applicants to ensure that their resume is adapted to the position/s sought and that they develop strong relationships with their Recruitment Agency staff.  The Recruiters act as brokers and can not be expected to invent or create information for the candidates that will be suitable for the advertised position.

Secondly, when employers utilise a recruitment agency they are very specific about what they want. Often the Recruiter gets a real feel for what is “unsaid” and gets a good impression of what that particular workplace/culture and employer is requiring.  Recruiters often advertise and screen applicant on behalf of the employer (their client) and often the employer pulls the strings on deciding who they would like shortlisted or for interview.

Lastly, Recruitment Agencies are not government funded, nor do they seek to attract unskilled or inexperienced applicants, remember that employers are often wanting skilled professionals to join their organisation who can hit the ground running, whether that is temporary workers or a new permanent employee.  Recruitment companies are  private businesses who invoice the employer for their HR  services, hence the urgent need to get the recruitment process and the candidates, right every time!

Hope this information helps next time you utilise a Recruitment Agency.

Ivana Agapiou

Eather Recruitment

The post Employment Agency Vs Recruitment Agency.. what is the difference? appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

Your Resume needs to contain your Knowledge, Skills and Abilities.

These can be also disguised under Key Selection Criteria (KSC), each have distinct differences between them. Know the difference and win the interview.

Knowledge: The level of education, experience and training an individual must have at minimum to be considered qualified for the position.

Skills: Specific skills such as ability to create manipulate and utilize spread sheets, word, processing programs

Ability:  Tasks you have performed and the length of time spent in a particular role.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (SKA’s) are often contained in a list of special qualifications and personal attributes that you need to have for a particular job.  These are the unique requirements that a recruitment agency wants to find in the person selected to fill a particular job.  A primary purpose of KSAs is to measure those qualities that will set one candidate a part from the others.   How well an applicant can show that he or she matches the position’s defined KSAs determines whether that person will be seriously considered for the job.

Knowledge statements refer to an organised body of information usually of a factual or procedural nature which, if applied, makes adequate performance on the job possible.  A body of information applied directly to the performance of a function.

Skill statements refer to the proficient manual, verbal or mental manipulation of data or things.  Skills can be readily measured by a performance test where quantity and quality of performance are tested, usually within an established time limit.  Examples of proficient manipulation of things are skill in typing or skill in operating a vehicle.  Examples of proficient manipulation of data are skill in computation using decimals; skill in editing for transposed numbers, etc.

 Ability statements refer to the power to perform an observable activity at the present time.  This means that abilities have been evidenced through activities or behaviours that are similar to those required on the job, e.g., ability to plan and organize work.  Abilities are different from aptitudes.  Aptitudes are only the potential for performing the activity.

Some job applicants are not sure whether the KSC requirements apply to them or where a response is optional.  There’s an easy way to decide when to pay attention to KSCs.  In a word –  “ALWAYS”.

Recruitment Agencies may emphasize the most important aspects of a job by assigning relative weights to each KSC.  Others will designate particular KSCs as being Mandatory (M) or Desirable (D).  Obviously the job applicant will want to focus the most effort on responding to the more heavily weighted KSCs or the mandatory ones, but it is important to remember that you need to address everyone on the list.  If a vacancy advertisement makes no distinction among the position’s KSC, the applicant should assume that all KSCs are equally important.

A key point to remember about all KSCs is that they must be job-related.  An agency cannot ask for anything in a KSC that is not in the job’s position description.

That’s enough on KSC for now, watch this space on “How to respond to KSC” and  Capability Statements along some writing tips and tricks.

In summary, if you need help with your applications or resume,contact Ivana, our resume writer on 0404056278

Ivana Agapiou career and outplacement consultant 

The post Knowledge, Skills and Abilities, why you can’t ignore them! appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

Looking out, the grass can always appear greener. Make sure you research the future job, and your motives for moving.. before you leap!

Feeling trapped in the job you have? looking for another job? Here are a few tips before you launch into resignation or even worse, lose your cool and walk out! Sometimes, we can find ourselves in a job that is not working out. There may be a number of diverse factors for this…

• boredom
• the tasks are becoming more difficult
• conflicts with other staff or management
• pay rate too low
• high expectations
• increase of hours for no extra recognition
• wrong job at the wrong time
• taking work home with you

The list is endless. Whatever the reason for your unhappiness, make sure you plan your escape carefully. Here are a few tips:-

1. Take any leave owed to you as this will help you to revive and review the situation, without being 100% in the workplace. Hopefully you can get away from it all and have some “me” time to consider your options with a clear head.
2. Talk to friends who can listen and not necessary advise, just listen. Sometimes hearing your own voice can assist you in forging a solution yourself.
3. Visit a Doctor and have a general health check and a chat about your current stress
4. Sit down and write a life plan which should include what your financial/ family /health goals are – a good question to ask is “Where would you like to be in the next 5 years” for example, do you want to move to the Metro or country? If you had to describe what your dream would be… then write it down!
5. Writing your goals and plan for the next few years, is the most important aspect of this journey

Once you have completed your plan, and you have concluded that you are going to leave your current job, consider your exit plan carefully.

Your first step into the new, is to check out your old resume and make sure it’s ready for the journey ahead!

Ivana Agapiou – resume writer and career advisor

The post Feeling Trapped in your current job? appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

 Pitcher Perfect and designed for the job.

This is a photo of a “Pitcher plant” it is designed to capture insects and it performs this role to perfection. Wouldn’t it be great if we all performed the job you were born to do!

Imagine for a moment what it would be like to do exactly what you love, to do what you are really, really good at, imagine the work being so in tune with who you are, it almost seems a piece of cake! You are invigorated each day, keen to get started!

Now, imagine (or maybe you already know) what it’s like to drag yourself out of bed each morning, dreading the day ahead, because you are about to go into a job that depletes the life and energy right out of you.

Huge difference, isn’t it? Isn’t really possible to do something that you love and be able to create a business or career out of it? Yes it is!

Firstly let’s examine some of the signs and symptoms of someone who is undergoing a critical time. How many of the items below do you relate to?

1. You’re are at a fork in the road in your life/career and unsure of which direction to go
2. You’re miserable in your current job/ career and seeking change
3. You’re afraid to change jobs because the current one offers you security and perhaps a good income, but you want “out”
4. You often think that there must be more to life and pine for a change
5. Your ‘successful’ career lacks the meaning or fulfillment you want
6. You commenced a company doing something you loved, but find that you are stressed and losing enthusiasm
7. You want to change direction but have no training/education to be able to  change industries or careers
8. You have just lost your job, and looking for guidance
9. You feel obligated to a career choice you made in your late teens or early      twenties
10. When you are at work, it is difficult to remain motivated and caring

If you ticked more than 4 out of 10. You do need help with deciding your future!

There are some helpful people that can assist you to transition to the work you love. Commence with reading “What colour is my parachute” as a starter, then seek our professionals who are qualified in helping you work through the crisis.

My motto is “if we all do the jobs we were born to do, the world would be a much happier place!”

Ivana Agapiou #resumes #resumewriter @figjamresumes.com.au

Ivana Agapiou resume writer and career advisor

The post Perform the job you were born to do! appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

Looking for work is just like fishing.

You have to have the right bait, the right target employers and the right timing.

Finding a job in Regional NSW is a little more challenging that the Metro areas, however, there are tried and true methods that work in any job market.

Let’s explore the fishing analogy

The Right Bait

I believe your resume is the “Bait” that catches the attention of the reader (or not!). What results have you got from your resume? Have you sent heaps out with little result? Did your resume “bait” the reader enough to invite you to an interview? If not, change your bait! Each time you fish for work, make sure your bait is adapted to the role  or the “catch”. Sending the same resume out for various jobs, is NOT helping you bait the right catch!

The Right Employer

A good fisherman reads the weather reports, checks for the best areas for particular catches. Looking for work is no different. Research the companies you are keen on; (don’t be afraid to make a phone call and ask questions!) Examine the future of this industry – is it viable? if you got work ( or fished here) is it fertile enough to sustain you in the future; check that you have the right qualifications; skills and experience; Written job applications need to be tailored to the job advertisement.

The Right Time

Seeking a career change? or looking for a new job in the same industry? Just like fishing for the same breed of fish means working out what that particular fish likes best. What would be the best bait and what times are best to catch them? Employers and industries often have “down times” or seasonality too! If you are seeking a complete career change – what have you learnt from previous experiences and jobs that would be relevant in your new path? This is known as “transferable skills”. Fishing in new zones, requires the Angler to utilize what they have already learnt and be prepared to fail sometimes. List all your capabilities, skills and make sure that this is what your new employer is looking for. As a recruiter, I rarely get a call from applicants asking questions on an advertised role, if I do receive a call, many just rave about themselves, without asking ONE question on the role! This is not to right time to rave… that is for the formal application. First and foremost, find out all you can…

Ivana Agapiou resume writer

The post Looking for work? are you searching for jobs in all the right places? appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

 Jobs need hard skills, experience, but also attitudinal and personal attributes that enhance the work environment

You may have the qualifications and even the experience needed to perform the work, however if you don’t possess the hard-core “soft skills”, that is, a strong work ethic, an ability to get on with others and a high level of emotional intelligence, your success in any role could be greatly diminished.

In 2002, the Business Council of Australia and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry produced the Employ-ability Skills for the Future report in consultation with other peak employer bodies.  The report identified  key, generic employ-ability skills that individuals should have along with relevant job-specific and/or technical skills. They are:

1. Communication
2. Teamwork
3. Problem solving
4. Initiative and enterprise
5. Planning and organising
6. Self-management
7. Learning & Technology

1. Communication

Developing your communication skills can help all aspects of your life, from your professional life to social gatherings and everything in between.  The ability to communicate information accurately, clearly and as intended, is a vital life skill and something that should not be overlooked.  It’s never too late to improve your communication skills and by doing so improve your quality of life. Professionally, if you are applying for jobs or looking for a promotion with your current employer, you will almost certainly need to demonstrate good communication skills. For example, the ability to:

• present appropriately to a wide variety of audiences
• demonstrate a varied vocabulary and tailor language to suit your audience
• listen effectively and when required, present ideas appropriately,
• write clearly, concisely with the reader in mind
• perform well in a team, showing initiative and common sense as well as respecting others

Many of these are essential skills that employers seek. As your career progresses, the importance of communication skills increases; the ability to speak, listen, question and write with clarity and conciseness are essential for most managers and leaders.

2. Teamwork

Getting on with others; understanding how others as well as you, can contribute positively to the team effort is a most important aspect of any role. The ability to work effectively with others on a common task; taking actions which respect the needs and contributions of others; contributing to, and accepting the consensus; negotiating a win-win solution to achieve are all aspects of a great team member.

Behavioural indicators include:-

• Building and Maintaining Relationships
• Give and receive feedback from peers or other team members in order to perform the task and improve outcomes
• Share credit for good ideas with others.
• Acknowledge others’ skill, experience, creativity, and contributions.
• Listen to,  and acknowledge the feelings, concerns, opinions, and ideas of others.
• Expand on the ideas of a peer or team member.
• State personal opinions and areas of disagreement tactfully.
• Listen patiently to others in conflict situations.
• Define problems in a non-threatening manner.
• Support group decisions even if not in total agreement.
• Achieving the task
• Give and seek input from others (in formulating plans for recommendations).
• Assist others in solving problems and achieving own goals.
• Share information, ideas, and suggestions.
• Ask for help in identifying and achieving goals and solving problems.
• Check for agreement, and gain commitment to shared goals.
• Notify others of changes or problems in a timely manner.
• Make procedural suggestions to encourage progress towards goals.
• Check for understanding.
• Negotiate to achieve a “win-win” outcome.

Do you have These Skills?

You’ll need to be able to prove to employers that you actually have the skills they want for the job. In applications and interviews they will ask ‘competency questions’ or ask for ‘capability statements’ that begin with phrases such as ‘tell me a time when …………. ‘ or ‘give me an example of ………….. ‘ Your answers will be the evidence that you have what it takes.

To find out how well developed your skills are already you could try this simple exercise:

Rate yourself on each of the behaviours:

• 1 = I do this very well. I am consistent and successful in it
• 2 = I am good at this. With some practice I can make it perfect!
• 3 = I am getting better, but still need to work on this a bit more.
• 4 = I am not particularly good at this – yet!

Revisit this exercise several times – you’ll want to have as many skills as possible at 1 and 2 before you apply for graduate jobs.

And, think about all the life situations you’ve been in – university, work, leisure, travel, social – and identify incidents and examples from them that show that you have already used the skill.

3. Problem Solving

Even when it isn’t specified in the job description, many employers will look at your problem solving skills at various different stages of the application process. This could be anything from psychometric tests to group activities or one-to-one interviews.

Problem solving is all about using logic, as well as imagination, to make sense of your situation and come up with an intelligent solution. It is connected to a number of other skills:

• A Level head and resilience in assessing a situation, and reassessing it if you fail the first time
• Analytical skills, creativity and logical thinking to reach a solution

4. Initiative and enterprise

Are you able to see innovative ways of doing things? do you have experience in  seizing opportunities, and taking initiative?  It may involve a newer way of looking at a situation or the addition of a new idea to improve or streamline an existing process. You’ve developed your initiative and enterprise skills if you’ve taken on leadership roles or practiced a better way of doing things.

Skills in initiative and enterprise are demonstrated by:

• adapting to new situations
• developing a strategic or long-term vision
• identifying opportunities not obvious to others
• translating ideas into action
• generating a range of options
• initiating innovative solutions

5. Planning and organising

This involves the ability to identify what is required in a given situation and to manage people and resources effectively to achieve results.  It also involves being able to manage time efficiently and priorities what tasks need to be done to achieve an overall goal.

You’ve planned and organized when you decided what courses to take at University, devised a study schedule for exam time, or managed work and school commitments simultaneously.

Examples of Planning and Organizing include:

• managing time and priorities
• establishing clear project goals and deliverables
• allocating people and other resources to tasks
• multi- deadline and time management
• collecting, analysing and organising information

6. Self-management

This skill refers to the ability to take responsibility for your own actions and life direction, and to set goals and successfully achieve them.  It involves setting achievable goals and using your time and resources effectively to achieve them.

If you’ve worked independently on a project, thought about your career goals and researched how to achieve them, or used a diary to plan your semester, you’ve demonstrated self management skills.

Self Management skills are demonstrated by:

• planning ahead and having a personal vision and goals
• evaluating and monitoring one’s own performance
• taking responsibility
• articulating ideas and vision

 7. Learning and Technology

Maintaining currency by keeping abreast of new technology and applying it to problems, as well as the ability to embrace life-long learning in the field of technology.

Skills in using technology are demonstrated by:

• having a range of basic IT skills
• willingness to acquire new IT skills
• selecting the appropriate technology for a given task

Learning refers to your ability to manage your own learning and contribute to ongoing improvement and expansion in your own knowledge and skill set.  This also refers to your ability to learn workplace skills and expectations specific to your organization.

If you actively seek to learn new things in lectures, have taken courses to develop specific hobbies or skills or have successfully fit into a new work environment, you’ve used your lifelong learning skills.

Skills in lifelong learning are demonstrated by:

• being open to new ideas and techniques
• contributing to the learning community at the workplace
• actively seeking a range of mediums to learn– mentoring, peer support, workshops or networking
• having enthusiasm for ongoing learning
• being willing to learn in any setting; on and off the job
• being prepared to invest time and effort into learning new skills

What soft skills do you possess? what ones do you think you need to fine-tune?   You can never learn too much! If you need help identifying your soft skills along with responding to a job application that requires you to outline your experiences.. Phone Ivana on 0404056278

Ivana Agapiou resume writer

The post Soft skills – its a hard-core necessity appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

Variety of jobs posted every day! 

Are you in the job market? Do you seek either temporary or permanent employment within the Mid North Coast? Have you a resume prepared and are you regularly checking the net for roles?

Look no further! We have a variety of jobs for many industries and diverse skill-sets…. check out https://www.eatherrecruitment.com.au/business-development-sales-admin/

for latest job offering and many more!

The post jobs posted every day on www.eatherrecruitment.com.au appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

Our client, a leading interior lining company based on the Mid North Coast of NSW, is currently seeking two Apprentices to start within the Port Macquarie region.

If you are young and looking for an opportunity to learn interior lining, including Carpentry, setting and sheeting gyprock this role is for you. This well established company will see you develop into a tradesman with their guidance and expertise.

You will posses a great attitude, a willing to learn and be reliable. Ideally you will also have a current drivers license.

All training will be provided on site.

The post Apprentice Plasterers appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting the store manager with the administration, sales and staff.

This is a full time permanent position with excellent salary and commission on offer

 DUTIES

• Focus on creating and maintaining an organised and motivated team
• Offer exceptional customer service and a warm and friendly shopping experience
• Act responsibly in compliance with the store’s procedures

 SKILLS + EXPERIENCE

• 3+ yrs Previous retail experience,
• Ability to provide a genuine and unique customer experience

The post Assistant Manager / Retail (Closed) appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

Finding and keeping skilled staff in small regional areas can be a challenge. Often locals or people moving to area have decided to relocate for financial reasons, some are unskilled or semi-skilled,  or if not, the demographic statistics indicate that many move to more remote areas for retirement purposes. The general lack of major industry and employment opportunities does not always attract the best candidates. So how do employers in regional areas attract the best staff? Here are a few helpful hints that we have gathered from working with top employers who have managed to attract and retain their good staff.

• Offer an attractive “package” deal. This may not always be financial, there may be “other nice to haves” that will act as incentives, for example, help with re-location, finding accommodation options or subsidies. An inclusion of use of a car, petrol allowance, 9 day fortnights are just some ideas.
• Refer to employee and employer tax relief incentives that could benefit you and the employee
• Involve them in decsions that will affect them, ask for opinions and listen to suggestions
• Create and maintain a positive, warm work environment, praise often and provide opportunities for feedback and conversations on expectations
• Recognise effort and good work. A simple “thank you” or a small gift is always gratefully accepted
• Discover why they have moved to area or have chosen to live there. What will keep them there? What motivates them? once you have found out more about them, their family and their interests, you will be able to choose the best rewards! for example, if spending time with family is of great importance, an extra day off here and there may just do the trick!
• Learn to read between the lines in a resume. Many metro candidates have specialised and if you can read “transferable” skills, you may have found a great candidate!

These are just a few simple suggestions. Recruitment is an expensive exercise, so it is important that when you do get the best person for the role, that person feels valued.  There is no guarantee that they will remain, however, there is a higher probability that they will!

Most of all, your reputation as a great employer will grow, and with this, more quality staff will be attracted to your business! what goes around comes around!

Ivana Agapiou

Career advise and Resume writer

The post Looking for staff in Port Macquarie or within Regional NSW? appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

Soft skills – take it seriously for job success

Daniel Goleman, Author of “Emotional Intelligence”,  claims that the best predictor of a highly successful person include the following 6 traits

1. Possess a natural courisity about others

They ask a lot of questions  when meeting new people, They actually listen to their answers!  They are highly empathic people, someone attuned to the needs and feeling of others, and may also mark high on openness to experience – this trait opens up creativity and inventiveness.

2. They are self-aware

To be emotionally intelligent, Goleman says, you need to have confidence. To have confidence, you need to know your strengths and weaknesses. Then you work from that framework.

3. They pay attention

If you are distracted you can’t make connections!. Additionally, the ability to remain focused–and not carried away by texts and tweets–predicts not just the ability to form strong relationships and cultivate self-knowledge, Goleman says, but also your financial success.

“Your ability to concentrate on the work you’re doing, and to put off looking at that text or playing that video game until after you’re done,” he tells the Huffington Post. “How good you are at that in childhood turns out to be a stronger predictor of your financial success in adulthood than either your IQ or the wealth of the family you grew up in.”

4. They can say “No”

People with high emotional intelligence, Goleman says,  can avoid unhealthy habits and otherwise discipline themselves–which also allows for relationship-nourishing, success-engendering non-distraction.

5. They know precisely what’s upsetting them

People with a high EQ acknowledge emotions as they come rather than repressing them or misattributing their causes. You could call this is Emotional Fitness.

6. They trust  intuition and take heed of Red Flags

There are neuroscientific reasons for trusting your gut: the red flags; the warning signs: Part of having a high EQ is learning when to trust them!

[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]http://eatherrecruitment.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/ivana-permanent-and-temporary-staff-solutions.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Ivana Agapiou Eather [/author_info] [/author]

The post Important job skills for a successful life appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

What do you think? should you modify the job to fit the person,

rather than find a perfect person to fit an imperfect job?

A subjective list of skills and experiences is neither objective nor predictive of performance. Instead, why not start off by finding stronger people and modify the job to meet their needs?

Most jobs are pretty fluid anyway, so it makes no sense to erect barriers-to-entry preventing some of the best people from applying. Prior to advertising for a role, examine what it is you need. Explore the ideal personality traits, for example, does the role require patience or persistance as a dominant trait? Construct a check list of tasks required to perform the role.  The “must have’s” and then the “nice to have’s” – be flexible is your requirements. There is always opportunity to train staff, however, if the person is not the right personality fit – no amount of training could help you!

All food for thought for this Monday Morning!

[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]http://eatherrecruitment.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/ivana-permanent-and-temporary-staff-solutions.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Ivana Agapiou  Eather Recruitment [/author_info] [/author]

The post Job to fit the person? or person to fit the job? appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

Time to stop, think, re-group, take stock AND start again with a even  better resume!

Often, our jobs are much more than just the way we make a living. They influence how we see ourselves, as well as the way others see us. Our jobs give us structure, purpose, and meaning. So how will you cope when you are no longer working?

The good news is that despite the stress, there are many things you can do to take control of a future situation and maintain your spirits. You can get through this tough time by taking care of yourself, reaching out to others, and taking the opportunity to rethink your career goals and rediscover what truly makes you happy.

Remember that the vast majority of job openings are never advertised; they’re filled by word of mouth. That’s why networking is the best way to find a job. Unfortunately, many are hesitant to take advantage of networking because they’re afraid of being seen as pushy, annoying, or self-serving. But networking isn’t about using other people or aggressively promoting yourself—it’s about building relationships. As you look for a new job, these relationships can provide much-needed feedback, advice, and support

Other proactive strategies are:

• Complete and update a new resume
• Tailor resume for each job application
• Keep eye on job market trends
• Search for jobs each day using a variety of methods
• Stay positive

Regularly check link to job vacancy on Eather Recruitment and Labour Hire’s website https://www.eatherrecruitment.com.au/jobseekers/search-for-jobs/#

Ivana Agapiou resume writer and outplacement consultant
Eather Recruitment 

The post Getting ready for job loss – are you facing redundancy; resignation or seeing the writing on the wall? appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

A healthy Work Culture!

• Is your work environment making you sick?

• Do you dread getting out of bed on work days? are you upset when your days off are over and you have to go back to work?

• Do you find yourself whinging, whinnying and complaining ….a lot?

These are just a few signs and symptoms of an unhealthy situation that is getting right under your skin! A great work environment is one of joy, laughter, comraderie, cooperation, and often built around genuine kindness and consideration for others.  It should be a workplace that recognises the contribution of others, compliments and praises for effort.

Often, the culture of any workplace begins with the leader. If this person has an open and transparent style, it can make all the difference to the well being of the staff.  We hear too many sad stories of employees who are unable to perform consistently due to increasing pressure and lack of support from above.

Just as the employer conducts interviews and reference checks on the applicant, it is vital that potential employees also research the employer prior to accepting a role. It makes sense to ensure that both parties have congruent values and expectations. A happy employee works harder, is generally more giving to the community and to their family – it has the ripple effect ….. what comes around goes around…

Life is too short to spend most of your life in a job that damages your soul and sanity!

[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]https://www.eatherrecruitment.com.au/about-us/our-team/[/author_image] [author_info]Content goes here[/author_info] [/author]

The post and the best work environment is……….. appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

Are you in recruitment mode and seeking workers for your business?   Here are 5 easy tips that may help attract, recruit, and maintain happy workers………….

Market and promote a strong brand image

Good marketing not only applies to attracting clients. Applicants want to work for “employers of choice”. Ensure you project the most professional image you can in all your media choices,  like websites, social media and events.

Create a warm and positive work culture

If you maintain a good work environment and you won’t have to look hard for new team members.  No one will want to leave! Developing a reputation as a great employer helps position you as the ideal workplace. Companies known as quality work places often spend less money and time on recruiting because people are waiting or vacant positions there. Word of mouth works really well as your team talk to peers in other workplaces about what a great boss you are and what a great place they work for!

Demonstrate community engagement

Get involved in your community. Sponsor and participate in events that get you out into the public and in front of prospective employees. Take on some public speaking engagements that present you as an expert and leader in your field. Start a blog and include comments about why your firm has the best people and show you really are proud of them.  Your reputation will spread and your current employees will love you even more.

Utilise Employment and Recruitment Agencies

Professional recruiters know just what to look for when sourcing the right staff for you. If you are a small to medium firm, a good recruiter can attract and place candidates who might not normally consider your firm. For larger firms, recruitment agencies can often be the most cost effective way to find the ideal fit. As we all know, an unhappy misfit can destroy the culture of a business very quickly. Just one bad apple…….

Reward referrals

Use networks to help find new staff. If one of your contacts refers a candidate to you, some of  the work is done as the candidate already has been provided a positive impression of you. You may like to offer rewards to current staff for high quality referrals. In most cases, your staff will only recommend other people if they think they will fit-in and add value to the company.

If you would like some advice on how to find and keep the best staff for your business, why not call us for an obligation free chat. We’d love to help!

Ivana Agapiou
Eather Recruitment Pty Ltd

The post Looking for Workers? Great employees who will remain with you? read on… appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

Whether you are a seasoned holiday maker who travels extensively, or someone who stays closer to home, we all get opportunities to witness a sneak peak into other lives; towns or people working in their own environments. Observing others, is more than just looking… it’s a valuable exercise – Just like reading a good book, travel should make you think; ponder; doubt; analyse… it should leave you with valuable memories that you can recall and use for your future. Yes, travel does expand the mind, but only if you let it!

Many travelers fast track visiting great, new  locations, with their “tick” list,  and run to the nearest tourist sites one after another, without really stopping and fully experiencing the culture and the people of that area.

One of the main benefits of travel is relating to others and using empathy and understanding. Tolerance and acceptance of other cultures and lifestyles. Understanding the “big picture” of why certain things are done, as well as appreciating the day to day routine and traditions.

What a wonderful divers world we live in. It teaches us that we can all live in harmony, if only we took the time to understand first!

Want to develop your interpersonal & communication skills? Want to increase your confidence? Want to engage in meaningful conversations and remain curious? These are mandatory core competencies in any job role… and what a great way to enhance your existing skills by travelling in our wonderful world!

Ivana Agapiou

General Manager

Eather Recruitment Pty Ltd

The post Experiences that enhance our jobs and future prospects appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

When it comes to how you’re judged at work, you might think that the quality of your work is all that matters. But human perceptions are a lot more complicated than that, and you might be sending signals that you are unaware of.

Here are some signals you may be inadvertently sending about yourself at work , and most importantly, how your boss and co-workers might read them.

1. The peers you hang out with
No matter how good your work is, if you’re always hanging around co-workers who only do the bare minimum, have a whine about everything or don’t get along well with others or their managers, you’re likely to be perceived as sharing those same traits – even if you don’t!

Likewise, if you spend time with the office’s high achievers, you’re likely to be perceived as having a similar work ethic and values (and those things can rub off on you in reality too).

2. Clock watching and the time you leave each day
If you watch the clock and leave every day right on  5 p.m. or start to pack up around 4.30pm, prepare to be seen as someone not especially committed , and only applying the bare minimum effort in what’s absolutely required. This perception can impact on you when it’s time for raises or promotions. On the other hand, if you always stay hours longer than everyone else, you might be seen as committed – which is a double-edged sword as  you might seen  instead as someone struggling to handle her workload. Better than each of these is a more balanced approach – not running out the door at the stroke of 5 each day, but leaving around the same time most other people do. Oh and don’t forget to early arrivals at work!! Those who are consistently late are ones that DO get the wrong sort of attention!

3. How you dress
“Dress for the job you want, not the job you have” is an old saying for a reason. You might get away with wearing jeans and ratty shirts in your role, but if the people above you look more professional, you’ll increase your prospects by wearing more corporate style clothes. Fairly or not, people have an easier time picturing you managing others, doing higher-profile work and dealing with clients when you look polished and well put together. General rule – the less flesh the better!

Rather than thinking of the dress code as telling you the minimum you can get away with, think of your work clothes as telling other people how you’d like to be perceived.

4. Your behaviour in meetings
If you sit silently in meetings without participating, you’re signaling that you don’t have much to contribute, or that you don’t care enough to contribute. Even worse, if you spend most of the time checking texts on your phone or reading sports scores, you signal that you’re disengaged! And maybe don’t care! So try to participate if you can – at an absolute minimum, make sure you look interested.

5. The state of your office space
If your office is bereft of anything – Spartan with no photos, no décor, no evidence that someone works there – you might signal that you’re just passing through, that you’ll be on your way as soon as you find something better. Bring in an art print for  the wall, and it will make a difference in how people see you. On the other hand,  don’t go nuts and reveal way too much about yourself: If every surface  is draped with photos, art and teddy bears etc, you’ll appear too flippant and not really interested on work. Avoid the messy office, which can make you look disorganized and frivolous.

Ivana Agapiou 
Eather Recruitment Pty Ltd

The post Some signals you may unknowingly send at work appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

Is there a difference between a Metro and multi national recruiter and a Regionally based one?

Yes, there is. As a  regionally based recruiter, and not metro-based or Sydney-centric means that we do not have the metro-mind set. What does that mean for you?  It means we possess strong country values, built on trust, respect and honesty – we are bound to meet you down the street, we live and work in the same town. We know what it is like to do business in this region and  it means we appreciate your business and want to remain of value to you for the long term, not just for the duration of the contract!

We are personally connected to many people within and throughout several communities. The 6% of separation is really only 2% – the people we meet at the supermarket and after work, or the people whose children attend the same schools, These are the same people we want to have in our lives.

We value our reputation and by performing at a consistent high levels, we can proudly add-value to our communities.

Ivana Agapiou
Eather Recruitment Pty Ltd

The post Regional Recruitment Agency appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

You may have said “Good staff are hard to find” or heard others say it…

Often employers ask us “Why is the person I interviewed and selected to join my organisation,  turn out to be different at the end of 3 month’s probation?”

For the purposes of this blog, let’s fast-track to the interview process as this is usually where the final selection is made.  (I will post more information on resume confirmation and referee checks at a later stage)

There are 5 simple MUST DO for a selection  interview

1) Listen 80% and talk 20% of the time!

2) Be 100% there and have absolutely NO distractions or interruptions

3) Ask high order questions – treat Google as your friend…. search for the 10 best interview questions and you will be surprised what appears. Select ones that suit you and your business/role

4) Intuition counts! listen, feel and observe… any red flags, that is, concerns, doubts or queries… then ask more questions, for example, if applicant responded to “why do you want to work for us?” with … “it’s so handy to my home” – follow up immediately with another probing question “Is being handy to home a priority for you?”

5) Have another observer at the interview.  They can help you by gauging reactions and providing a second opinion.

Finally, dont forget your own experiences at job interviews, most applicants are nervous.  However, there are some applicants we call  “serial interviewees” who can act slick and polished and provide all the classic responses… watch out for the “charm” factor!

So you dont want to  raise the anxiety levels for your potential employee, you will get to know them better if you are more relaxed in style, but still manage to ask the right questions and make better, more informed decisions.  Only then will you hear happy customers ask you ” How did you find such good staff?”

Ivana Agapiou
Eather Recruitment and Labour Hire

The post Good staff are hard to find? appeared first on Eather Recruitment.