Stress in the Workplace

Image from: ircmentorcollaborative.org/stress-management

Have you ever had a stressful day at work?  Ever asked yourself “When is this day going to end”?  Probably so.

Stress in the work place is a serious issue that not only affects the health of the employee but also the productivity level of the company. Work-related stress arises when work demands exceed our personal capacities and therefore making it difficult for us to cope.  Everyone wants to be recognized for their hard work, but working “too hard” can lead to more than just stress. 

Here are several symptoms associated with stress:

• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Sleeping difficulties (big no-no in our company)
• Depression
• Anxiety

We’ve all experienced these symptoms at some point in time.  However, what can we do to make sure we minimize our stress levels?  

Well, for starters…talk about it with your employer.  Remember that your employer wants to maximize your productivity output.   If there is a work-related issue holding you back they can help.  Never assume that they want to add more stress just because more work is coming in.  Remember if you lose, they lose!  Also think about making a “to-do list”.  Make sure you put the tasks in order by priority so you have a sense of accomplishment when you complete one.  Sometimes just seeing that you have completed a task can give you more energy and motivation to complete the list.  Last but not least, RELAX!  Take some time off and don’t look back.  Be sure to disconnect from work.  Close that laptop, ignore that phone call, and just BREATHE!  Taking a break can re-energize you and have you back at max productivity in no time, which is a win-win situation for everyone!

Speaking about taking a break…..I need a vacation soon!! :) 

Know some other great stress relievers? Email Tony at Tony.Velazquez@mfrm.com 

Nonverbal Mistakes!

Check out this great image from www.interviewlaboratory.com! 

interviewlaboratory.com

Wake Up to a New Career!

On the job search? Looking for a new career? Please join MFRM Family of Brands for their National Career Day! Feel free to RSVP in a city near you.

http://www.mfrm.com/national-career-day

Is your current job a snooze?!

Join MFRM Family of Brands on January 27th at our National Career Day! 

Click below to find out more information.

http://www.mfrm.com/national-career-day

There is no such thing as too much research... said no one ever

One of the worst things that could happen in an interview is not knowing anything about the position you are applying for, the company you’re interviewing with and not conducting any research beforehand. Success in a job interview starts with a solid foundation of knowledge on the job-seeker's part.

First, you should understand the employer’s values, motives, culture and initiatives. A great place to find this information would be the company’s website. Read the details and make sure you are able to reference during the interview.

Next, this may seem like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised. It is important to know the requirements of the job. What kind of role you will play? What is required of you? What are the basic skills you should have to make you successful for the position. I would suggest utilizing websites like Glassdoor.com, company websites and even calling employees that work for the company and asking them about it.  There are even websites that you can see reviews and comparable tools to see how companies measure against each other in terms of requirements and benefits.

Lastly, doing research on the background of the person (or people) interviewing you can help you connect to them. Websites like Linkedin and Facebook make it super easy to gather this kind of information and employers will find it to be impressive, not creepy. The more research you conduct, the more you'll understand the employer, and the better you'll be able to answer interview questions.

 Feel free to check out our Glassdoor page at http://www.glassdoor.com/Overview/Working-at-Mattress-Firm-EI_IE28763.11,24.htm

If you have any research questions, contact me at Ashley.gonzales@mfrm.com

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