Past Five

The Best Places to Work Put Employees First

Last night, I attended the Daily Herald Business Ledger ceremony for the Best Places to Work in Illinois in 2012. LaSalle was honored in the small and medium size company category. It is a huge honor to be recognized and I am proud of every employee’s contribution to the award.

The keynote speaker, Thomas A. Klobucher, CEO of Thomas Interior Systems, explained why each company made the list using three words: putting employees first. Companies today that have the most unique culture and the most dedicated employees almost always put their staff first.

Happy employees treat customers better, subsequently improving customer service levels and sales at the organization.

Last night reinforced my belief that retaining and engaging staff is not all about monetary incentives. Almost every company that was honored offers training programs, uses recognition tools, provides regular feedback and spends quality time with employees.

They also do fun things as a company, like happy hours, baseball games, March madness parties, potlucks, sumo wrestling competitions and volunteering.

The ceremony attested to the fact that every company, regardless of its size, has the potential to be a great place to work.

Congratulations to all of my co-workers at LaSalle!

Entrepreneurs: What to Know When Starting a Business

According to a report conducted by the Harvard Business School, first-time entrepreneurs have only an 18 percent chance of succeeding. Why? Because many entrepreneurs today are naïve to the struggles and triumphs that accompany owning their own business. They underestimate the amount of time, energy, devotion and care it takes to develop a meaningful, successful organization.

Here’s what entrepreneurs need to know before they open up shop.

Pinch pennies: This seems obvious, but frugality is essential for entrepreneurs. The biggest area people spend foolishly on is technology. People buy huge servers for potential, yet technology changes so fast, that they bought too much, too soon and could have grown in to it. Companies can also save money when investing in an executive team. Entrepreneurs forget that they don't need to build the executive team of a $100 million company when they’re just starting out. The people they hire to start and build the company probably won't be the same ones they’ll need when they achieve certain milestones.

Go all in: Entrepreneurs need to be able to commit to working 60, 70, 80 hours a week, to being on call all the time and to taking a substantial pay cut (hopefully only initially). They need to be able to put their business first and themselves second.

Be resilient: Building a business is like having a child. You love your child unconditionally and are proud of all their accomplishments, but you know along the way there will be hardships. You don’t stop loving your child because of their mistakes or faults, instead you help them to grow and support them no matter what. This is how entrepreneurs should run a business. If something goes wrong, they need to do something about it. If their number one client leaves, they need to cold call and door knock to compensate for the lost business.

Build and leverage relationships:When an entrepreneur is just starting out, everyone should know about it, family, friends, former colleagues and acquaintances. Everyone is a potential investor or client. At the same time, entrepreneurs need to develop new relationships. They need to be transparent and honest with prospects, recognize the big events in their lives and show appreciation for their time and consideration.

Embrace the Madness

Companies that attempt to squash the fun and energy of March Madness are approaching the situation the wrong way. The games are an ideal opportunity to boost employee morale and thank clients.

Limiting an employee’s ability to watch or discuss the games is exactly the reason articles are predicting a decrease in worker productivity during this time period. The more a person is told they can’t do something, the more they want to.

So embrace it, encourage staff to wear their favorite college jersey or start companywide brackets. Maybe even consider bringing in a few T.Vs for employees to watch the games during lunch. Allowing staff a minor “indulgence” has been known to increase productivity and spur creativity. Not to mention it will do wonders for morale.

March Madness is also the ideal time to thank clients outside of the holiday season. We throw an annual March Madness open house, where we invite all of our clients and bring in hot dog vendors, a popcorn stand, beer and snacks. The open house allows us to show our appreciation for our clients and is also a more casual forum that facilitates relaxed dialogue and helps our staff and clients connect on a more personal level.

But it’s not necessary to spend a lot of money to thank clients. Companies could hold a bracket challenge with a small prize for the winner. Any other ideas?

Solid Relationships: The Keys to Business Success

My business has grown as a direct result of the strong relationships we have with our clients. I believe that many young professionals today overlook the importance of building relationships and don’t take the time to nurture and develop them properly.

Professional relationships, like personal relationships, develop overtime and grow as a result of honest and open communication. Transparency is crucial in professional relationships. If a mistake happens, own up to it. If something doesn’t goes as planned, admit it. Clients will appreciate the candor, even if they don’t like the outcome.

Client relationships should also be multi-dimensional;meaning both professional and personal. While understanding the business, desires and goals of a client is important, so is knowing the client’s interests, hobbies, significant other’s names and weekend plans. Demonstrating a genuine interest in the life of a client shows that they are more than just another account.

Finally, appreciate clients. Thank them for their business, no matter how small it may seem. While big events like a holiday party express gratitude, small gestures can be just as meaningful. Mail a handwritten thank you note, send a cookie cake or take a client out to lunch.

Ditch the Corporate "Don'ts" this Holiday Party Season

Why do people always focus on what not to do at holiday parties? Concentrating on the taboo makes us forget what holiday parties are all about- an opportunity to have fun while networking and generating business.

In order to make the most of a corporate gathering, toss the restrictions out the window and utilize some commonsense.

It all begins by dressing for the occasion. Whether a company hosts an ugly sweater party or maintains business professional apparel, it's important to follow the dress code. Showing up under or overdressed causes people to focus on their wardrobe instead of the party at hand.

Once the party is underway, many people worry about when to eat, what to say to clients and how to break the ice. But these are unnecessary concerns that distract us from the party. There's no need to turn away the mouthwatering mini burgers in order to maintain a "professional" façade. Eating throughout the party allows people to maintain high energy levels necessary for socializing.

Although it seems obvious, people should be continuously mingling the entire length of the party, and not just with colleagues and clients. A corporate shindig is the perfect opportunity to meet new people and network.

While it's tempting to stay on safe conversation topics when talking with acquaintances and clients, a holiday party is the ideal occasion to get to know business partners on a personal level. Asking questions about hobbies, spouses, children, pets, etc., demonstrates an invested interest in the relationship.

Holiday parties shouldn't be a source of stress to employees. It's one of the many joys
of the season, so relax and have fun!

How to Revive a Dead Career on Halloween

Tip #1: Rise at the witching hour

Set yourself up for success before stepping into the office. Resist hitting the snooze button and wake up a few minutes earlier to do something you love. Run outside, cook a healthy breakfast or meditate as the sun rises; instead of feeling drained before you start the day, you will have more energy to power through it.

Tip #2: Carve out a relationship with your manager

Every employees main purpose is to make their boss's life easier, so work independently and anticipate your manager's needs before he or she asks about them. Connect with your manager on a personal level; ask about his or her passions outside of work, and find the opportunity to engage those interests in conversation. The extra effort and positive attitude you put into the relationship will not go unnoticed.

Tip #3: Enchant your co-workers

Everyone likes to be acknowledged for their hard work or a job well done, and your co-workers are no exception. Speak up when a colleague closes a big deal or completes an extensive project. Although their work may not directly affect you, the buzz of sharing praise can foster positivity in the workplace and a feeling of camaraderie among staff.

Tip #4: Brew something new

While you may be comfortable in your routine, it may also be the source of your dissatisfaction. Bring excitement to your job by asking for assignments outside of your job description. Challenge yourself everyday to say or do something that feels out-of-the-box. Not only will your employer be impressed with your initiative, but the change of pace and new variety of work will be a stimulating addition to your everyday tasks.

Tip #5: Don't be afraid to say, "Boo!"

If you are usually a wall flower in meetings or brainstorming sessions, it's time to break out of your shell. Don't let fear hinder you from contributing to your company's missions, and in turn, your career satisfaction. Voicing your ideas will gain respect from your peers, increase your enjoyment and make a difference in your career.

Are Women Better Bosses?

Are women better managers, bosses, leaders? Well, since four fifths of my executive team are women, I would say err toward the side of yes.

Throughout the past few years, I’ve been overly impressed by the performance of LaSalle’s female leaders. They successfully build consensus to reach decisions, openly communicate, and inspire their team for continuous achievement and accomplishment.

While some people say that women bring emotion into the workplace, I say “Of course they do!” but that’s a good thing. Give me passion or give me death!

The stereotype is that women experience more emotional extremes than men, but emotion, if positive, will create a constructive and supportive environment that is good for the workplace and critical for business success.

Throughout the day, regardless if an employee accomplishes a large goal or a small task, I hear these women cheering and outwardly congratulating their team. I see the Director of Human Resources become infinitely more excited for an employee’s birthday than her own. And I’ll see our Vice President of Sales jump up and down when a business development manager receives an order.

These women worked hard for their successes and have pushed through barriers to get there. Not one of these four women were handed opportunities on a golden platter; they worked hard and earned to be where they are today. Because of their perseverance, they equally push and elicit this out of their team.

Not only are these women great bosses, but they are role models. Without the women of LaSalle, our company would never be where we are today.

How to End on a High Note

Beginning a new job is exciting, but you must remember that leaving your old job professionally is integral to your career success. Moving on to a new employment opportunity and leaving your job is more challenging than you think. It’s crucial to leave your current job on a high note, and the tips below can aid you in a positive transition out.

Tell key people that you are resigning. First and foremost, you want to talk to your supervisor, and explain clearly and concisely why you are leaving. The delivery of your resignation letter should be via conversation not via e-mail. Next, talk to others in management with whom you worked closely, mentors and people that you may have mentored. You don’t want key people you’ve worked with to “hear it through the grapevine.”

Be considerate of your employer and coworkers. Giving your employer adequate time to find someone to replace you, transition someone into your role, etc. is crucial. Two weeks is customary and expected. You want to get organized as well. Make a list of assignments and projects that you will complete before you leave. Next, compile a list for your supervisor of projects that are pending. You want your transition out to be as seamless as possible for you and your employer. Leave names of contacts, user IDs and passwords, and guides and manuals to help those who take on your role. Stay focused, and work hard, if not harder, than you have in this position all along.

Be positive! Let your colleagues and supervisors know you appreciate the time you spent with the company and working with each of them. Discuss particular projects on which you enjoyed working. Thank them for memories you’ve shared. Leave your contact information and be sure to get theirs. These soon-to-be former colleagues should be part of your network, and supervisors should be part of your reference network.

To avoid burning any bridges, follow the advice above, and you’re sure to end on a high note.

How to Land and Capitalize on Summer Employment

Spring has begun, and summer is just around the corner. Do you, or your kids, have a job lined up to capitalize on those summer months? A summer job is more than just mowing lawns or flipping burgers; it is a chance to make connections that will prove helpful throughout your career, and in this flooded market, students need to start their summer job search NOW.

Start NOW

Now, right now. Go. It’s never too early to begin your summer job search. Whether you plan on going home for the summer, traveling out of state or setting up shop on-campus, it’s important to start researching potential summer employment now. Target companies in your area and contact them directly inquiring about summer help. Reach out to local staffing and recruiting firms regarding project work. Go to the local library to peruse posted flyers. Wait until June to search for a summer job and you may find yourself holding down your parents’ couch instead of building your resume during the summer months.

Cast a Wiiiiide Net

Everyone should know you’re looking for summer employment including your family, friends, friends’ parents, parents’ friends, professors, advisors, old coaches and teachers, your family doctor, the grocery store clerk, you get the idea. The more people who know you’re looking for a job the more quickly you will secure one.  

Inform your contacts on what your ideal job is and sell them on why you should be hired. When selling yourself to your network include information like major, year in school, previous relevant work experience, interest in the company, industry or position, work schedule flexibility and positive attitude. The more your network knows about what you want in a summer job and why, the easier it will be for them to be an effective mouthpiece for your job search.

Target Internships

Even in this stringent market, many companies continue to offer summer internships to eager college students. Do your research on the target companies for which you’d like to work and inquire about summer internship programs, however, be sure to remain open to companies and industries outside your ideal. Internships are a hot commodity for college students, and the candidate pool will be competitive, so be sure to maintain an open mind and attitude to all opportunities.

Don’t expect to get paid for your summer internship. Many employers are cutting back budgets for these types of programs, and landing internship experience is priceless, regardless of the immediate monetary rewards.

Don’t Treat it Like “Just Another Summer Job”

Yes, your summer job may not be directly congruent with your long-term career goals; however, the contacts you meet now will prove valuable partners in the future. Treat every interview, every interaction with employers and every hour of your work day as you would a “real” job. Your performance, attitude and professionalism during summer employment are a reflection of you and your work ethic, no matter how irrelevant your summer job may seem. Make a good impression on your summer employer, and you will find yourself with a valuable resource with whom to reconnect after graduation.

 

Social Media Best Practices in Staffing

Know Your Objectives

Before embarking on the rollercoaster ride that is social media, be sure to know what you’re aiming for. Are you looking to get sales leads? Communicate with candidates? Increase brand awareness? Get feedback from your clients and candidates?

• Whatever your objectives may be, be sure to clarify them before launching your social media campaign.
• In the staffing industry, it is wise to utilize social media to accomplish multiple goals, some focusing on business development and others on customer service and marketing, to create an effective social media strategy that supports all corners of your business.

Brand Yourself

The look and feel of your company’s social media campaign is just as important as the colors and content of your sales brochure, and the usability of your Web site.

• Before you begin communicating with candidates and clients via mediums like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn or a company blog, spend time ensuring your brand is accurately portrayed.
• Driving candidates to a generic Twitter homepage will do little to promote brand awareness. Instead, utilize your Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn page to portray your company culture and services. For example, customize your Twitter background with pictures of company events, and utilize your profile to highlight services areas and drive traffic to your Web site.
• If employees outside of the marketing team are informally utilizing social media, be sure the look and feel of their communications are consistent with the company, as a whole. Provide content for employees to utilize in their profiles and pages so your formal marketing campaign isn’t belittled by a co-worker’s poorly executed communications. Social media exposes an organization to the public like never before, and before you go live, make sure you, and your colleagues, are representing your company well. 

Give More Than You Take

Like any healthy relationship, a successful social media campaign requires two-way communication.

• Give to your audience as much, if not more, as you hope to receive from them.
• The key to a successful social media campaign is to interact, really interact, with visitors, while at the same time being well-versed in the conversation going on outside your four walls. For example, share links to articles on Twitter your network might find interesting, give candid feedback on company news, answer questions and post helpful presentations on LinkedIn, respond to visitor comments on your company blog, post job openings on your company’s Facebook page or refer the community to other useful Web sites or blogs.
• The more you give, the more you will receive when it comes to social media, and spending time thoughtfully adding value for your candidates and clients will create the foundation for a lasting and fruitful relationship, online and off.

Manage Your Community

Social media is an open forum that allows direct and real-time contact between companies and consumers. However, with this free-flowing communication comes vulnerability.

• Your company Facebook page or blog can be an effective vehicle for brand awareness and positive reviews, but it can also be an easy target for disgruntled job seekers or unsatisfied clients. First, expect negative feedback; you can’t please everyone.
• However, when a harmful comment arises on your blog or Facebook page, have an action plan to remedy the issue, quickly. Ask yourself questions like, “Does this warrant a response?”, “Does it speak to a serious issue within the company that should be addressed?”, “Was there a misunderstanding of our services and process?”, “Does this warrant a response? If so, privately or publicly?”, “Is this a misrepresentation of our services, and if so, should we simply delete it?”.
• The ease of interaction that an open forum allows can be a powerful communication tool, however, be prepared for all types of feedback and respond swiftly and intelligently to negativity. 

Measure Your Success

After spending several months regularly utilizing social media, re-evaluate your progress.

• Which resources have been most useful? Are there areas in which we are falling short? Are our efforts moving us towards our objectives? If so, can we expand our goals? If not, on what do we need to focus to achieve them?
• Like any business plan, the social media return on investment must be measured. If you aren’t frequently evaluating your efforts and analyzing how they are contributing to the company’s ultimate goals, you are missing the purpose of a social media marketing campaign.