Journey

Leadership Lessons from Popular Songs

By Job Journey on Monday, February 9, 2015

Every day, the radio plays the hottest songs of the season, and while these songs entertain, they can also teach us a thing or two about leadership.

Leadership lessons from popular songs? Why not? When it comes down to it, everything can be a way to improve leadership skills. Some of these tunes have a deeper underlying theme that can help you find your steps and improve your life.

So, without further adieu, let’s find our leadership lessons in these popular songs.

1. “Shake it Off” by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift manages to shake off the naysayers and bounce back bigger and better every time. You too can follow this example. You’ll have people trying to cut you down, hold you back, and make you feel less than perfect, but it’s your choice how to react. Everyone makes mistakes. Success comes from how you handle that mistake, and great leaders don’t let others bring them down. Concentrate on doing the best you can, learn from your mistakes, and strive to move on.

2. “I’m Not the Only One” by Sam Smith
This song is about listening to your instincts when something doesn’t feel right. In today’s world, the art of listening to your inner voice is sometimes nonexistent. However, knowing what’s in your heart can lead you on the right path. If something doesn’t feel legitimate or if you can’t trust who you are dealing with, you might want to keep your guard up. If you come across an opportunity, like a job posting, that feels good, explore it further. Research the company and learn about its culture, goals, and history. But, remember the age-old wisdom – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

3. “Ghost” by Ella Henderson
Sometimes we make mistakes or go through a bad time, and we can’t seem to let that mistake go. We keep “going to the river to pray” because we need something to wash the pain away, but it keeps haunting us. Ella makes a good point. She’s losing sleep, she’s dealing with the devil, and she’s still hurting. Maybe it’s time for you to give up the ghost. What has happened in the past cannot be changed, but dwelling on those destructive feelings can only cause more harm. Maybe you’ve had a bad job experience, or your interviews aren’t always going perfectly. Find a way to make peace with your past and enter the future with a bright, positive outlook.

4. “Moves Like Jagger” by Maroon 5
The first line of this popular song is “just shoot for the stars, if it feels right.” The boys from Maroon 5 have the right idea. If you have a dream and it feels right to you, then go for it. Consider what you want to accomplish and start making progress to reach your goals. If you want to start a side gig, switch careers, or go for a big promotion, you have to be the one to make it happen. Having dreams and goals are important, but so is believing in them. Every day, do something that helps you reach your goals.

5. “Superheroes” by the Script
As the lyrics say, “When you’ve been fighting for it all your life, you’ve been struggling to make things right, that’s how a superhero learns to fly, Every day, every hour, turn the pain into power.” This song teaches us to never give up and to always keep fighting for what is important. Challenges, victories, defeats, and experiences give us the tools to become superheroes, especially if you learn to turn pain into power. No matter what happens, you can overcome the difficulties and become a super leader to others. Take all your experiences and become stronger because of it.

Next time your favorite song comes on the radio, listen hard. You may learn a life lesson from simple lyrics.

Do you have a favorite song that inspires you as a leader? Share with us in the comments section below.

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Uncategorized

The Results Are In: What Is the Key Factor That Contributes to Your Job Satisfaction?

By Job Journey on Friday, February 6, 2015

Now that 2015 is well underway, many job seekers are focusing on their goal of finding a job this year. As job search efforts increase, it’s important to recognize and understand the key factors that contribute to job satisfaction so you know that the job you’re trying to get is the right one for you. To help determine the factors that go into job satisfaction, we recently polled Movin’ On Up readers and the results are in!

Keys to Job Satisfaction
The most important factor that contributes to job satisfaction, according to 32% of poll respondents, is “engaging or meaningful work.” “Feeling valued” was a close second with 29% of the votes. “Job security” was the most important factor for 11% of respondents, while “compensation” and “room for advancement” received 10% and 7% of the votes, respectively. Only 4% of people considered “company benefits” to be a key factor in their job satisfaction, along with 2% of those who chose “leadership.”

Additionally, 5% of respondents selected the “Other” option in our poll and left responses including:

Efficient communication
Pleasant atmosphere
Co-workers and managers who are nice to work with
Good planning, organization, and control
Flexibility
Acquiring new skills
All of the above

What Leaders Think
Interestingly, it seems there may be a disconnect between a company’s decision makers and those trying to secure a job there. On Refresh Leadership, the Express blog for business leaders, we asked the same question and the results were very different. While 26% of leaders agree with job seekers that “engaging or meaningful work” is the most important factor in job satisfaction, that’s where the similarities end. In fact, while only 2% of Movin’ On Up readers said “leadership” was a key factor, 14% of employers chose this answer. Additionally, 19% of employers chose “compensation,” while only 10% of Movin’ On Up readers agreed, and “company benefits” gained 11% of employer votes, but only 4% of job seeker votes.

Your Job Search
Though there does seem to be a divide between what business leaders and job seekers value most when it comes to job satisfaction, you should keep these results in mind when you’re looking for a job. Were you one of the majority of respondents who selected “engaging or meaningful work” as the key factor to your job satisfaction? If so, try to use this as a determining factor in your job search. For example, if you are interviewing with a company, ask the interviewer what he or she enjoys most about their job. Look for ways that the job can inspire you or help you give back to the community. If you chose “leadership” or “room for advancement,” you can inquire about these elements of the job during an interview by asking questions that show your interest in the position. You may even be able to determine some factors, such as compensation and company benefits, through the job posting. While getting a job is a nice start to the year, ensuring that you’ll be satisfied with your work is even better.

How do you plan to use these results to help with your job search? Let us know in the comments section below!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

The Daily Grind

How To Love Your Job, Even On Mondays

By Job Journey on Wednesday, February 4, 2015

During the month of February, there is a lot of talk about love. But anyone who’s been in a relationship for a long period of time can tell you that there is a point where love becomes a choice. When the butterflies and honeymoon phases fade away, that’s where the work begins. And loving your job is no different.

The idea of someone loving their job can seem like a far-fetched dream. But the good news is that it just requires a person to keep working at it. “You don’t have to quit,” encourages a Fast Company article. “It is possible to rekindle that old spark.” Here are three helpful tips to keep your love for your job alive, even on Mondays.

Make a List
Every job has positive aspects to it, even if they don’t immediately come to mind. Take a few minutes and list out the good things about your job. Do you have fun co-workers, bring home a paycheck, have health insurance, or enjoy your projects? If the answer is yes, write it down. What about a flexible schedule, holidays off, travel opportunities, or an up-to-date computer? Those are all positives too.

Once you have some items on your list, post it where you can easily see it. You can always add more to it whenever you discover another aspect of your job you love. Then, when you’re having a tough start to the week or just struggling with liking your job, you can read through the list and give your attitude a boost.

Discover What You Can Change
As a Forbes article about loving your job pointed out, “boredom is often at the root of unhappiness at work.” It’s up to you to discover what areas you’re dissatisfied or bored with, and then map out a way to make some changes. “Challenge yourself to look for one area that would give you more joy at work and then make it happen.” It could be as simple as rearranging, decluttering, and decorating your desk space. Or perhaps it might be training yourself to do one of your tasks more effectively. Another aspect of this is seeking out new responsibilities. Forbes recommends that you “keep your ear to the ground to get the scoop on positions opening up or emerging projects — even if they’re short-term. Then throw your name into the hat.”

Remember Your End Goal
In the day-to-day distractions, it’s easy to forget your bigger purpose. But think back to when you first took this job. Most likely you were excited, and that’s probably because the job was a step toward a goal. Whatever that goal was – money to buy a house, getting your foot in the door at a great company, learning more about an industry that interests you – try and remember it. You’re at your job for a reason, and while this particular stretch of your journey may not be your favorite, take joy in the fact that you’re at least working toward your goal.

No one wants to be in a job they hate. After all, if you’re going to spend the majority of your waking hours at work, life will be much more enjoyable if you love your job. And that’s not an unrealistic dream. “Loving work is not as much a pipe dream as winning the lottery – it’s something far easier to achieve,” the Inc. article explains. “Loving your job is a skill and a practice,” so all you have to do is work at it.

What tips do you have for enjoying your job? Let us know in the comments section below!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Workplace Relationships

What to Expect From Your Mentorship

By Job Journey on Monday, February 2, 2015

So, you have a mentor. Whether they’re a personal, business, or school mentor, you’re lucky to now be in a relationship that can help you grow and succeed in your professional and personal life. Like all relationships, both sides have responsibilities. It’s important to remember that the mentor doesn’t do all the work – you have to put in your own level of effort and time too. Your mentor takes an active role in guiding and helping you, but you also have to let them know about what you want to learn, your challenges, your hopes, and more. What To Expect From Your Mentor Let’s talk about what a mentor actually does. A mentor will: Offer encouragement and ongoing support Listen to things that are worrying you and give constructive, unbiased support Share stories and examples of their own failures and victories Provide honest feedback and suggestions Act as a sounding board for ideas and dreams Help with making decisions by offering alternative views based on experience Introduce you to …

Career Advancement

Do You Have What It Takes to Play On A Championship Team?

By Job Journey on Friday, January 30, 2015

Excitement is growing each day as we get closer and closer to the kickoff of the big game. Friends are planning parties and fans are picking sides. And in the spirit of one of the world’s largest sporting events – it’s time to put your game face on and attack your job search. Here are five tips to help you become a champion in the job search competition.

Develop a Game Plan
Research companies you would like to work for and develop a plan of action to be part of their team. The most obvious search would be the company’s website to see if the company culture aligns with your values. Consider asking friends who might work at the company or individuals you might know through professional networking organizations. Execute your plan daily with determination, drive, and passion.

Fundamentals are Key
In football and in life, fundamentals are key. You need to practice your skills to make sure you are sharp and ready for any assignment. If you are just entering the workforce and don’t have the experience yet, consider volunteering with a nonprofit to gain some valuable skills like organization, time management, and team building. Or, if you are in the workforce and are looking for a change, you may need to think about career technical school or night school to acquire a new set of skills.

Outplay Your Competition
After you’ve practiced, sharpened your skills, and executed your plan, you’re set to outplay your competition. Here are some suggestions that can set you apart from the competition: dress appropriately for the interview, know what employers may ask in an interview, and be on time. Once you have an interview, make sure you follow up with a thank-you note to the interviewer.

Go Long
It’s 4^th down and inches and you are faced with a choice: do you go for it or punt. If you are willing to take a risk on a new job opportunity, but still have questions, it’s okay to ask the interviewer questions. You may consider asking what does a normal workday for this position look like or what is the biggest challenge someone in this position typically faces.

Leave Everything on the Field
You’ve prepared for that dream job and got an offer, now what do you do? Make sure you are on time for work and for meetings, work hard to hit your deadlines, and contribute solutions to projects at hand. Above all, work hard and celebrate with your new championship team.

What are some ways that you attacked your job search with a game plan and landed on the championship team? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Reader Surveys

Poll: What Causes Communication Breakdown in Your Job Search?

By Job Journey on Monday, January 26, 2015

When it comes to your job search, many factors can make or break your chances of landing the job. Your resume, the interview, and how you follow up with potential employers can be positive or negative aspects to your search. Another factor that is sometimes overlooked is communication.

In the workplace or during a job search, clear and concise communication is important for success. Tony Robbins, life coach and self-help author, said, “The way we communicate with others and with ourselves ultimately determines the quality of our lives.”

We want to know what you believe is the biggest cause of communication breakdown when it comes to your job search. Let us know by voting in our poll!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Workplace Relationships

National Have Fun at Work Day

By Job Journey on Monday, January 26, 2015

These days there’s a national holiday for just about everything. On Wednesday, Jan. 28, it’s National Have Fun at Work Day.

Work is usually a place where we’re serious and focused on deadlines, meetings, and the hustle and bustle of work life. But, having a little fun is good for the soul and productivity. Here are a few ideas to shake stress off and make the day fun!

Dress up.
No, not in your typical business attire. Pick your favorite TV show or movie characters to dress up as. Maybe don your best 1950s gear. Get creative and clever with it, because this is a day to be silly.
Have a potluck or go out for a long lunch.
What better way to have fun at work than with a potluck? Each person could make their favorite dish and then there could be a contest for the best recipes. The winners could be featured on Facebook or in the employee newsletter. Or, how about the entire team picks a new restaurant to visit? Take time to really sit and chat. Relax and enjoy getting to share time with your co-workers.
Host games throughout the day.
Make a day of it with your very own office Olympics. Different departments can compete against each other to see who earns a trophy and bragging rights. And if playing all day is not possible, maybe every hour or every other hour there could be an activity. Get creative and encourage teamwork!
Give back.
Why not do some volunteer work on this national day of fun? Spend the day with your co-workers giving back and making a difference in your community. Many nonprofits rely on volunteers to help fulfill their missions and would gladly accept the help.
Take pictures.
Who doesn’t love a photo booth? Plus, they’re very cost effective to create. Usually all you need is a flat wall or doorway and some streamers. Throw in some hats and various props, grab someone who can snap some pictures, and you’ve got a fun way to document the day!

National Have Fun at Work Day doesn’t have to cost a fortune or consist of elaborate activities. A little bit of creativity can go a long way! Let the good times roll!

How do you celebrate National Have Fun at Work Day? Let us know in the comments section below!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

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