The Invaluable Question of "Why?"

In the process of preparing for an interview there are many key steps to complete: proofread resume, professional business attire and punctuality to name a few. However, often times while speaking with candidates when asked the pertinent and seemingly simplistic question of “What made you decide you want to work for us?” Or, “Why did you choose to apply?” Often the response is generic, unfounded, or none at all.

When applying for a position it is important to see it as the first step in building a relationship with a potential employer. In general when we formulate a relationship it should not be approached in a haphazard, random way. There should be a foundation of facts behind the decision connecting the employer with the candidate. In order to preserve time and to always put your best foot forward, consider the following questions:

·         What do I like about this company?

·         What is their history?

·         What are the benefits of working here?

·         What skills do I have that match the qualifications for the position I’m applying for?

·         Can I see myself having a career with this company?

·         Does this company offer me opportunity to grow?

In the interview process the company that you’re applying for wants to be a great match for you as you do for them. When a candidate researches the company they are applying for and gives thought as to why they want to be there, this is where progress is made right from the start. Whether an in-person interview or over the phone, knowledge truly is power. 

Want to practice your interviewing skills? Email anne.neidiver@mfrm.com 

Are you one to Cross your I's and Dot your T's?

A job application form is the screening tool many employers use to decide who they will interview. How you fill out the form can influence whether or not you eventually get hired, or at the least, even be considered for an interview. When starting the process make certain of these following tips:

Resume should only be one page long

·         Use a template online, if you’re unable to format it yourself

Always remember to reduce clutter

·         Note: Most recruiters spend less than 1 minute viewing your resume, you want it to be bold and concise.

Remember to always use proper Capitalization 

·         First and Last Name (Your Name or any References/Supervisors)

·         Addresses

·         Past Employers

Spelling and Grammar

·         Always use spell check, in fact make spell check your best friend

·         Have a 2^nd or 3^rd pair of eyes look over your Resume and/or Application before submitting.

Always put your best foot forward, by screening your material and making sure you are in fact dotting your I’s and crossing your T’s!  

Interested in filling out an application with Mattress Firm? Feel free to contact me at kelly.valiente@mfrm.com 

The Importance of Retention

In the acquiring talent world, there is a more dominant word that mirrors with recruiting. This word may be looked at as the other half of the see-saw for a recruiter’s work; a constant battle of up and down. The word is known as retention. (Dun dun dun…) 

Retention is a hot topic among our company and among many others as well. It seems to be a constant theme among most of our meetings, and in our daily conversations with our peers. Jim Stroud heartily jests about retention in his article “Retention is the new recruiting.” Stroud even opens the article up with a little song, “Cheaper to Keep Her,” by Johnnie Taylor. He talks about a recent Randstad survey of 11,000 workers on why they left their last job. And more importantly not only why these workers left, but what would make them stay. Ever thought what would make you stay in your current role at your company? Most workers said “good riddance” to their previous employer, because there was a lack of career growth, low compensation and poor leadership.According to the 11,000 surveyed a better work/life balance, competitive salary, flexibility, and corporate financial health are the top items that would entice them stay. 

In the article, while Stroud addresses possible solutions to the HR executives to consider, it is also important for the current job seekers out there to pay mindfulness to the key points made by Stroud. Ask yourself if there is career growth at this company? How is the compensation and leadership? And don’t forget to inquire about the work/life balance? 

Retention is just as important as recruiting. It is a consistent tug-of-war between the two, but you cannot have one without the other. Therefore, do your homework on the company you are inquiring about, and ask questions that are important to you in a new employer. Remember you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you!
 Happy Job Hunting! 

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/retention-new-recruiting-jim-stroud

Have any questions? Feel free to email Janessa.Reyes@mfrm.com 

Color my World

I’m a new homeowner with decorating on my mind. I have grown a complete obsession with HGTV. I watch several of the shows, have a subscription to the magazine and found one thing in common…everyone’s overall goal is to decorate their home with things that make them happy. One challenge someone might face is picking a paint color as there is what seems to be over a billion colors to choose from.

The same can go for your work space. It should be a reflection of things that inspire, motivate and make you happy. I really enjoyed the article below from The Muse that discusses how colors in the office can have a direct relation to workers mood and productivity. Below is a brief breakdown of color ideas for your office space:

•Blue – stable and calming color that helps workers focus on the task at hand

•Green – good color for people who work long hours

•Yellow – optimistic color and can help stimulate activity

•Red – increase the heart rate, blood flow and also invokes emotion and passion

Keep these in mind for your new work space or if you’re simply looking to refresh.  Happy decorating!

https://www.themuse.com/advice/the-color-of-your-office-affects-your-productivity-even-if-you-dont-realize-it

Want to share some images of your office? Email me at erin.lindquist@mfrm.com