Express Employment Professionals

I once worked for a boss who required everyone to put on a “good meeting face” during team meetings. And I’ll admit the first time I heard this, I struggled to wipe a smirk off my own face. But did you know that a significant amount of our communication with others is understood through the non-verbal cues we give – like our facial expressions? In fact according to Psychology Today, when words and non-verbal communication don’t match up, people tend to interrupt the meaning based more on the non-verbal cues we send than what we’re actually saying. So it turns out, my boss’s advice to pay close attention to what my facial expression was right and it’s stuck with me for a long time. Here are a few do’s and don’ts of meeting faces.

The Don’ts: Meeting Faces to Avoid

• Don’t frown – It may seem like a given, but you’d be surprised how many people unconsciously frown during meetings. Frowning sends the message you don’t approve of something or you’re unhappy. So as the saying goes, don’t forget to turn that frown upside down.

• Don’t squint– Squinting can be a hard expression to read. When you furrow your brows it can convey a look of shock or confusion.

•   Don’t stare off into space – I struggle with this one. When you’re in a meeting it’s important to be attentive and focused. You don’t want it to look like you’d rather be somewhere else.

The Do’s: Sending the Right Messages

• Do maintain eye contact – Eye contact is an important part of non-verbal communication so be sure to look up often to let the meeting organizer or speaker know you’re all ears.

• Do smile – Smiling can help others feel calm and comfortable around you. And for meetings like brainstorming sessions, a calm relaxed environment is exactly what your coworkers need to be effective, productive and innovative.

• Do remember it’s not just about your facial expressions – Communicating well with others during meetings isn’t just about your meeting face. It’s also about your body language, tone of voice, your attitude and preparation.

So, come to every meeting prepared and ready to engage. Look interested. Focus on the person speaking or the supporting presentation materials. Taking notes is a great way to show interest if you’re the timid type, just be sure to look up from time to time. Nod your head in agreement occasionally to show you’re on the same page.
If you’re concerned your meeting face might need some help ask a co-worker you respect to watch your “meeting face” demeanor, and follow their advice and feedback.
How do you make sure you’re meeting face is sending the right message?
Share your comments below.

According to Workforce.com, 75% of job seekers who responded to a survey stated that company culture is as important as salary. For most companies, the easiest way to define their culture is through a mission statement and values or a code of ethics. This information is usually easily found on a company website or within recruiting materials. But as you’re looking for the right fit, how can you know the culture they portray is really lived out in their office?  Here are five questions to ask in an interview that can help you get a glimpse of their company’s culture in action.

1. Are employees awarded for exemplifying company culture, values, or mission?
   This question looks at two things. First, if a company has an awards program, and second, how much importance is placed on values, a mission, or a culture. Typically, behavior that is rewarded is behavior that is exhibited. So if a company is really focused on something, they’ll design an awards program around it. By asking about employee recognition or investigating their website or social networks for things like an employee of the month, you can get insight into what the company deems important. If the answer to this question is no, ask what type of awards are given to get an idea of what recognition programs are in place.
2. What’s the biggest period of change this company has undergone?
   Understanding how a company handles periods of change – be it in technology, product development, reorganizations, sales strategies, or more – can demonstrate how the culture guides the organization. A company’s mission statement and stated values are often the guiding factors for decision making, so ask specifically what role the interviewer played during the change. Going through a large change is often a high pressure situation; some companies thrive in this environment while others may try to avoid change at all costs. Depending on your own personality, the attitude toward change could help you decide if you’ll feel comfortable in that company. 
3. How was the company founded and do the founders still play a role today?
   A culture within a business isn’t developed overnight, but often began with the inception of the organization. Understanding the mission under which the company was founded and the spirit of those who began the company can help you understand the tone of the company. 
4. What is the decision making process in this company?
   When you ask this, don’t limit it to the hiring process. Depending on your role, you’ll want to know how decisions are made and who is involved making them before you take a job. If this question seems too broad, ask for a specific example of a how challenge was solved and what the decision making process was for implementing a solution. A well-defined decision making process can make things less stressful, and allow you to complete your tasks with confidence and efficiency. 
5. Can you share an example of a time when the company’s values impacted your own role?
   Asking for specific examples about how a position like the one you are interviewing for was impacted by the company’s values can give you a glimpse into company life and lets you learn more about the person you’re interviewing with. Plus, the answer can let you see how big of a role the values of the organization play in the daily functions of employees.
   

While finding the right job includes everything from matching skills, schedules, work environments, and more, it’s important not to discount finding the right culture fit. The culture of the company can impact every facet of the job, and is the aspect of the job that is least likely to change.

As a job seeker, how do you investigate a company’s culture? Share your ideas in the comments section below.

When was the last time you went to a library? Grade school? College? Never? If you’re job searching, or looking for professional development, your library can be a great resource. The best part about libraries is that most of their resources are free. And you may be surprised about what your library has to offer.

Free Internet
With social media impacting job searches and many businesses requiring online applications, internet access is an important part of your job search. While you may be able to job search online through your mobile phone or tablet device, it may not be easy to apply or complete a profile. A desktop computer can be a better way to complete job search related tasks online, and give you a larger screen to make sure information is accurate and free of typos.

And while your Facebook friends or LinkedIn contacts might be great ways to hear about jobs, you may also want to check out your own profile with something more than an app on your phone. Mobile access to sites doesn’t always give you the full picture or allow you to easily manage your privacy settings. Consider using a desktop computer at the library for internet access that will allow you easier access to review your accounts and update your information.

Great Resources
Libraries often offer classes that could benefit you in your job search or skill building, like preparation classes for getting your GED, basic computer skills, tax assistance, and more. Not only will you have access to free learning, but it can also be a great networking opportunity as well. Researching online is great, but what if there is a person who has been really influential in your industry? Consider getting their biography at the local library, it can make for a great casual conversation in an interview. Another great topic to check out at your library is on leadership, with multiple philosophies, trends, and influential authors to help uncover what best resonates with your values. This knowledge can help you identify the type of workplace culture that fits you best and help you solve challenges at work.

Fun Activities
What about having some fun at the library? Libraries can host shows featuring local artists, classes on knitting or yoga, or an assortment of kid’s activities. There may be a reading club that interests you or a game club. How does an afternoon of Mah Jongg or Scrabble sound? For kids and teens there is everything from story hours to video game sessions. So when you need to take a break from your daily grind, consider your library!

What surprises or resources have you found at your local library? Share them here.