Tag Talent Recruitment

Feeling stuck in your career is a common experience many of us face at some point. You may feel unfulfilled, lack motivation, and struggle to see a way forward. But there is hope! By asking yourself a few vital questions, you can gain clarity and start taking steps towards a more satisfying career path.

Reflecting on Past Experiences

What activities have I truly loved and enjoyed in the past?

Think back to times when you felt fully engaged and happy. This could be a project at work, a hobby, or a volunteer role. What were you doing during these times? What skills were you using? Try to identify common themes. Were you problem-solving, creating something, helping others, or leading a team? These insights can point to what you find most meaningful and rewarding.

Identifying Your Passions

Is there a particular issue or cause that I’m passionate about?

When you care deeply about a cause, working towards it can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment. This might be anything from environmental conservation to social justice to improving healthcare. Consider how your skills and experience could be applied to make a positive impact in an area you care about.

Exploring New Opportunities

Are there any growing industries related to my hobbies or interests?

You may have hobbies or interests outside of work that could potentially lead to a new career path. With the rapid pace of change in the job market, new industries and roles are emerging all the time. Think about how your passions could align with in-demand fields. For example, if you love writing and are interested in technology, perhaps a role in tech content creation could be a good fit.

Taking the Next Steps

Once you’ve reflected on these questions and have a better sense of what you’re looking for, it’s time to start exploring new opportunities. At ABBTECH, we specialize in connecting professionals with exciting roles in growing industries. Our team of expert recruiters can provide personalized guidance and help you find a position that aligns with your goals and passions.

Don’t let feeling stuck hold you back any longer. Take the first step towards a more fulfilling career today. Contact ABBTECH to get started on your journey!

The modern job market is marked by rapid change and uncertainty. As a technical professional, navigating confidently in this industry and proactively taking steps to enhance your job security are essential. In 2024, staying relevant, upskilling, and positioning yourself as an indispensable asset are critical to maintaining stability and advancing your career. Working with an experienced staffing firm like ABBTECH can provide valuable support and opportunities.

Stay Relevant Through Continuous Learning

The pace of technological advancement in the technical field is breathtaking. To stay ahead, commit to continuous learning and professional development. Identify your specialty’s most in-demand skills and trends and pursue relevant training and certifications. Attend industry conferences, webinars, and workshops to stay current and network with peers. Consider earning a graduate degree or completing an online course to expand your knowledge and adaptability.

Upskill and Diversify Your Skill Set

In addition to keeping your existing skills sharp, focus on upskilling and diversifying your technical abilities. Obtain expert level skills in complementary areas to increase your value to potential employers. For example, as a software engineer, learning data science or cybersecurity can make you a more attractive candidate. Be open to new challenges and take on projects outside your comfort zone to demonstrate versatility.

Position Yourself as an Indispensable Asset

Show your current or prospective employer that you’re an indispensable asset by consistently delivering high-quality work and taking initiative. Volunteer for high-visibility projects and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams. Develop soft skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving to complement your technical abilities. Quantify your achievements by tracking metrics and preparing case studies showcasing your impact.

Leverage the Expertise of a Specialized Staffing Firm

Improving job security as a technical professional in 2024 requires a proactive and strategic approach. You can confidently navigate the modern job market by staying relevant through continuous learning, upskilling, diversifying your abilities, and positioning yourself as an indispensable asset. Additionally, partnering with a specialized staffing firm like ABBTECH can provide additional support and opportunities. Take control of your career trajectory and ensure success in the rapidly evolving technical industry. Connect with ABBTECH today!

The field of mechanical engineering is highly competitive, with talented professionals vying for a limited number of positions. To succeed, you must differentiate yourself and demonstrate value to potential employers. This article will explore the key strategies and skills that can set you apart, from mastering cutting-edge technologies to honing your soft skills and highlighting relevant hobbies.

Embrace Emerging Technologies

Mechanical engineering is a rapidly changing field, with new technologies and tools constantly being developed. To stay ahead of the curve, embracing these emerging technologies and making them a core part of your skill set is essential. This could include:

• 3D Printing: As additive manufacturing techniques become increasingly prevalent, proficiency in 3D printing can be a significant differentiator. Consider taking courses or gaining hands-on experience with 3D printing technologies.
• Simulation Software: Tools like finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) allow for complex simulations and modeling. Mastering these software platforms can showcase your advanced technical skills.
• Sustainability-Focused Design: With a growing emphasis on environmental impact, demonstrating knowledge of sustainable design principles and green technologies can make you a more attractive candidate.

Develop Your Soft Skills

While technical proficiency is crucial, developing strong soft skills is equally important. These include:

• Communication: Clearly explaining complex technical concepts to engineers and non-technical stakeholders is invaluable. Consider taking courses in technical writing or presentation skills.
• Collaboration: Mechanical engineering is a team-based field. Highlight examples of successful team projects and your ability to work collaboratively with others.
• Problem-solving: Employers want engineers who can think critically and approach problems creatively. Prepare specific examples of how you’ve applied problem-solving skills in past roles.

Optimize Your Resume and Online Profiles

Your resume and online profiles (such as LinkedIn) are your first impression to potential employers. Make sure they’re optimized to showcase your unique skills and experience. This includes:

• Keywords: Use keywords related to mechanical engineering and the specific job you’re applying for. This will help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catch the eye of hiring managers.
• Relevant Hobbies: If you have hobbies that demonstrate technical skills (such as building custom computers or designing DIY projects), include them. This can showcase your passion for engineering and transferable skills.
• Quantifiable Achievements: Rather than just listing job responsibilities, focus on quantifiable achievements and how you’ve added value to past roles. For example, “Improved project efficiency by 25% through implementation of new design software.”

Partner with a Specialized Recruiter

Navigating the competitive job market can be challenging. Consider partnering with a recruiter who specializes in mechanical engineering positions, such as ABBTECH. Their deep industry knowledge and established network can help you find ideal opportunities that align with your skills and career goals.

Ready to find the right mechanical engineering job for you? Contact ABBTECH today!

When we’re children, people ask us what we want to be when we grow up. Our responses are often ambitious – an astronaut, a superhero, the president. As we get older, our ideas about the perfect job evolve, shaped by our experiences, skills, and passions. But does the perfect job actually exist?

The answer is complex. While it’s unlikely to find a job that checks every box and makes every day feel like a dream, there are roles out there that align with our values, play to our strengths, and bring us a sense of purpose and fulfillment. The perfect job is a deeply personal concept.

What Makes a Job Ideal?

So, what makes a job ideal for different individuals? For some, it’s about creativity and autonomy. They thrive in roles that allow them to express themselves, take ownership of projects, and solve complex problems. Others value stability and structure, preferring jobs with clear hierarchies, established processes, and a predictable routine.

Impact, Growth, and Balance

For many, the perfect job is one that makes a positive impact. They’re drawn to roles in non-profits, education, healthcare, and other fields where they can contribute to the greater good. Salary and benefits are important, but they’re not the only factors. Work-life balance, company culture, and opportunities for growth and development also play a significant role.

A Moving Target

The perfect job is a moving target. As we gain experience and grow both personally and professionally, our ideas about what we want in a career evolve. A role that was ideal in our 20s may not be the best fit in our 30s or 40s. The key is to stay tuned in to what we want and need, and be open to new opportunities as they arise.

Finding Your Ideal Role

So, how can you find a job that aligns with your passions, skills, and values? Start by doing some soul-searching. What are you most passionate about? What are your greatest strengths? What matters most to you in a career? Write down your answers to these questions, and look for roles that align with what you’ve identified.

The Power of Networking

Networking is also a powerful tool. Connect with people in your desired field, and ask them about their experiences. What do they love about their jobs? What are the challenges? What advice would they give someone just starting out? Informational interviews can provide valuable insights and help you determine if a particular path is right for you.

Don’t Settle

While it may be nearly impossible to find a truly perfect job, there are opportunities out there that will bring you joy, challenge you to grow, and align with what you value most. Don’t settle for a role that drains your energy and leaves you feeling unfulfilled. Keep searching, stay open, and trust that the right opportunity will come along.

Let ABBTECH Help

At ABBTECH, we’re dedicated to helping you find a career that you’ll love. Our team of experienced recruiters will take the time to understand what you’re looking for, and connect you with opportunities that align with your goals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you find a job that’s the perfect fit for you.

Are you passively job searching, or are you actively on the hunt for a new opportunity? While both approaches have merits, passive job searching often involves casually exploring potential opportunities while continuing to excel in your current role. It’s a state of professional openness in which you remain receptive to intriguing openings without dedicating hours each week to applying.

On the other hand, active job searching is typically a more aggressive pursuit. It involves setting specific career goals, scouring job boards daily, and methodically applying to numerous positions that align with your objectives. While being an active seeker can lead to new opportunities more quickly, passive searching allows you to capitalize on unexpected chances that might be an even better fit.

So, how can you effectively passively search for a job while continuing to thrive in your existing position? Here are three tips to keep you prepared and competitive:

1. Optimize Your Online Presence

In today’s digital age, potential employers and recruiters will likely search for you online. Ensure your professional profiles, especially LinkedIn, are up-to-date and highlight your accomplishments. Consider your other social media accounts – are they employer-ready? It might be wise to tighten privacy settings or remove any content you wouldn’t want a potential employer to see.

2. Network Strategically

Attend industry events, join relevant groups, and connect with people doing interesting work. These connections can lead to valuable advice, partnerships, or job opportunities. Nurture these relationships by offering help when you can, recommending articles of interest, and more.

3. Keep Your Resume and Skills Fresh

Even if you’re not actively applying, update your resume periodically with new skills you’ve acquired and successes you’ve achieved. Consider taking a relevant course to expand your skill set, making you a more attractive candidate. Practice articulating your career goals and what you can bring to a new role.

By passively job searching, you open yourself to unexpected opportunities that might be a fantastic fit. And if you decide you’re ready to take an active role in your job search, start your search with ABBTECH! Our team specializes in connecting top talent with exciting opportunities. Reach out today to explore how we can assist you in your career journey.

In an era of increasing global threats and complex geopolitical challenges, the role of government agencies in safeguarding the nation’s security has never been more critical. With access to sensitive information and the ability to influence policy and decisions that impact the nation’s future, government employees hold positions of immense trust.

A government public trust security investigation is a vital tool agencies use to ensure that only the most trustworthy and reliable individuals are entrusted with these responsibilities. By rigorously examining an applicant’s background and assessing their character, integrity, and suitability for a role involving public trust, these investigations help protect against the infiltration of untrustworthy individuals who could exploit their access for malicious purposes.

The consequences of a security breach in a government role are far-reaching. They potentially compromise national security, undermining public faith in government institutions and having far-reaching consequences for the nation’s stability and prosperity. Therefore, the meticulousness and importance of government public trust security investigations cannot be overstated.

The Investigation Process

The investigation process begins with a comprehensive review of the applicant’s personal history, including their employment, education, and criminal background. This review helps determine any potential issues that could impact the individual’s trustworthiness.

Next, interviews are conducted with the applicant and any references provided. These interviews assess the applicant’s character, integrity, and suitability for a public trust role.

Additional checks, such as credit history, financial stability, and lifestyle, may also be conducted to understand the applicant’s trustworthiness better.

Requirements for a Government Public Trust Security Investigation

To pass a government public trust security investigation, an individual must demonstrate:

Honesty and integrity: A consistent history of truthful behavior and adherence to ethical standards is essential.

Reliability: Consistent employment history and a demonstrated ability to fulfill responsibilities are crucial.

Good judgment: The capacity to make sound decisions is vital, especially when faced with sensitive information.

Respect for the law: A clean criminal record and a history of lawful behavior are paramount.

Impact on Job Seekers

A successful government public trust security investigation opens up a wide range of opportunities in the public sector, particularly in roles that require access to classified information or influence over national security decisions.

However, failing a security investigation can have significant consequences. It may limit job prospects in specific industries and may require re-applying for positions after addressing the identified issues.

Understanding the process and requirements of a government public trust security investigation is crucial for job seekers in industries requiring security clearance. By demonstrating honesty, reliability, good judgment, and respect for the law, individuals can increase their chances of successfully navigating this process and securing roles with greater responsibility and impact.

Ready to find government roles that require a specific security clearance? Contact the experienced team at ABBTECH and start your job search today!

Are you a seasoned Project Manager (PM) or aspiring to become one? The dynamic world of project management has seen a seismic shift from the 20th century to today. In this blog, we explore the historical trends, face the challenges head-on, and identify the opportunities that have shaped project management over the years. From adapting to multi-generational workforces to the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in our workflows, and the implications of continuous technological advancements, we have got you covered. And if you are on the lookout for new PM roles, ABBTECH is your go-to for exciting opportunities.

Historical Trends in Project Management

Project management in the 20th century began with a focus on efficiency, especially in the manufacturing sectors. The introduction of Gantt charts in the 1910s and later the Critical Path Method (CPM) in the 1950s revolutionized how projects were planned and executed, emphasizing timelines and resource allocation. As the century progressed, the emergence of new industries necessitated a more adaptable approach. The development of Agile and Lean methodologies in the late 20th century illustrated a shift towards flexibility, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction.

Challenges in a Multi-Generational Workforce

One of the unique challenges of the modern-day PM is leading a multi-generational workforce. Each generation brings its own set of values, work ethics, and communication styles. Baby Boomers value stability and structure, Generation X workers strive for work-life balance, while Millennials and Gen Z seek purpose and rapid advancement. Bridging these gaps requires a nuanced approach to project management that fosters inclusivity and leverages the strengths of each generation.

AI and the Evolution of Project Management

AI is transforming project management in unprecedented ways. Machine learning algorithms can now predict project outcomes, automate routine tasks, and provide data-driven insights that enhance decision-making. As a PM in the 21st century, embracing AI is no longer optional—it’s imperative. Understanding how to integrate AI tools can streamline your processes, reduce human error, and free up time for strategic planning and innovation.

Technological Advancements: A Double-Edged Sword

The relentless pace of technological advancements brings both challenges and opportunities. On one hand, PMs must constantly learn and adapt to new tools and platforms, which can be daunting. On the other hand, these advancements present opportunities for increased efficiency and connectivity. Virtual collaboration tools, real-time data analytics, and cloud computing are just a few examples that have made managing projects more accessible and scalable.

Seizing Opportunities with ABBTECH

Project management has come a long way since the 20th century. While the trends and tools have evolved, the core principles of effective management remain constant: clear communication, strategic planning, and adaptability. By understanding the challenges and embracing the opportunities, PMs can lead their teams to success.

Opportunities abound for those willing to adapt and grow. ABBTECH specializes in connecting PM professionals with roles that capitalize on these trends. Whether you’re interested in leading AI-powered projects or managing diverse teams across global platforms, ABBTECH can help you find your next challenge.

Explore the new PM roles ABBTECH has to offer and be at the forefront of this exciting field!

Hiring engineering talent can be challenging, especially if you are not a trained engineer. How you evaluate their skills depends on the position you’re hiring for, the types of projects they’ll be working on, and your company culture. With so many different types of engineers, you need different interview techniques to evaluate them properly.

This blog will cover three effective interview techniques that can help you evaluate an engineering candidate’s technical skills, as well as their personality and soft skills.

1. Focus on Content

Before interviewing candidates, you must decide exactly what core skills you are looking for. Look at the purpose of the engineering role and what technical or practical expertise is needed. Consider bringing in one of your senior engineers to consult about exactly what skills you’re looking for. You could also ask your whole engineering team what questions they would like to be asked to test a candidate’s aptitude for the position.

2. Be Consistent

Once you establish what you are looking for, be consistent with each candidate interview. Ask every candidate the same questions; this will allow you to effectively compare candidates and more accurately determine who fits the role.

Consistency in your interview questions helps you avoid being biased toward candidates. Prime talent may not shine on paper. Resumes, specifically educational credits and past work experience, can be impressive. However, just because a candidate looks good on paper does not mean they will be a good fit for your company and the role in question. Asking consistent questions allows you to compare candidates on a level playing field.

3. Be Creative

When it comes to evaluating engineering talent, be creative with your questions. The goal is to evaluate how a candidate will handle a problem or provide a strategy to help them succeed in the role you seek to fill. Your engineering team can be very helpful in formulating questions that determine technical skills and assess the candidate’s soft skills in handling situations.

Conclusion

Preparing an effective engineering interview takes time, patience, and focus. By focusing on the hard and soft skills needed for the role and enlisting your engineering team to help you vet prospective candidates, you can develop practical questions and techniques to interview engineering candidates and find the right fit for the job.

Let us help you hire top engineering talent! Contact ABBTECH today!

The pandemic forced many businesses to shift to hybrid or fully remote teams. The transition was challenging for some companies, and many managers are still learning and adapting to managing their remote teams.

If you are still learning to manage your remote workers effectively, here are 5 effective strategies for managing remote teams.

Trust your Remote Teams

Nothing brings out the best in an employee like managerial trust. Trusting your employees to self-manage themselves to complete tasks and accomplish goals increases their trust in you as a manager. They become more confident, more productive, and more capable. Limit yourself to quick morning meetings and check in on progress only when necessary.

Host Daily Meetings

Tracking your team’s progress may be complicated when your team is remote, but it is not impossible. Beginning each day with project-oriented meetings ensures you are all on the same page professionally. Daily meetings allow your remote employees to manage their own time. They also allow you to give them your full attention once a day while avoiding micromanaging.

Encourage Communication

Regarding communication, work-related communication is only part of the equation. Employees need to know that you are not only invested in their work results but also in them as a person. Take moments to reach out to employees, especially ones you don’t usually speak to. Be empathetic, and never let your employees forget that you see them as people first. This should be a daily exercise in building communication and company culture.

Provide Time and Space for Building Connections

It’s also important to note that improving company culture means encouraging employees to build connections with each other. The best way to do that is to provide time and space for employees to build those connections. This may seem difficult with a hybrid or remote team, but many virtual opportunities are available to bring people together. Team members can come together for games, a virtual happy hour, or other online team-building activities.

Lead with Empathy

Psychological safety is a vital element to create for your team, especially for hybrid and remote teams. You can do this through all of the ways listed above and more. Create a shared purpose for your team members, ask for their perspectives on projects and new hires, and create opportunities for bonding. Then sit back and watch as their confidence and productivity soar.

Conclusion

Managing your remote or hybrid team doesn’t have to be complicated. Keep the strategies above in mind and you’ll be well on your way to effectively keeping your teams aligned and productive.

If you’re searching for a leader to lead your remote team, ABBTECH can help!

Many older people left their jobs during the pandemic, reversing the long-term trend of older workers delaying retirement. Now, with the pandemic over and the cost-of-living soaring, many of these over-50 workers and early retirees are choosing to return to work. This job market phenomenon has been dubbed “The Great Unretirement.”

The Great Unretirement is poised to become a major factor in the current and future job market.

In this blog, we’ll look at some of the reasons for the Great Unretirement. As well as how this return of veteran workers could benefit your business.

Reasons for the Great Unretirement

One of the main factors motivating older people to return to the workplace is financial. The current state of the economy, including the steady rise in the cost of living, is causing many retirees to dip into their savings to make ends meet. Guaranteed funds for their golden years are dwindling, and with no steady source of income to replenish those coffers, older people are finding it necessary to look for jobs with a steady income.

Other reasons for the Great Unretirement include a waning of pandemic-related health concerns, increased longevity, a higher retirement age, and underfunding of pension programs.

The Great Unretirement and the Skills Gap

Industries across the board are facing a serious talent shortage. This shortage is primarily due to a skills gap. Meaning that, while many workers are available, finding the right candidate to fulfill the role’s needs is difficult.

Many of the skills needed are soft skills that take time to develop. Older workers have not only had years to develop these skills but also practiced them actively in the workforce. Skills such as resilience, adaptability, flexibility, empathy, and diplomacy are highly valued soft skills that older workers will bring to your company.

While many younger workers have the credentials and education to secure a job. What they lack is the practical experience or the nurtured instincts that a veteran worker would have.

Conclusion

The Great Unretirement will bring many skilled, talented workers back into play. As older people return to the workforce, whether in a temporary, part-time, or full-time capacity. Companies need to be ready to take advantage of the highly skilled, valuable workers. And welcome them into the workforce once more.

If your team is missing key members, let our team find your missing piece! Contact ABBTECH today!

Are you a recent college graduate? Congratulations! Once the thrill of graduation has passed, it’s time to start the search for your first post-college job. But where to start? Knowing where you should begin with job searching can be overwhelming.

In this blog, we’ll break down a few top tips & tricks to help you start a successful job search post-graduation.

Tip #1: Recent Graduates Should Create a Professional Online Presence

Before you search for a job, the first step is to ensure that your professional portfolios, profiles, resumes, and cover letters are updated and accurate. This includes maintaining a website or another dedicated site where your professional materials can be accessed via a link when needed.

Update your resume to reflect your education, experience, and skills (hard and soft). You likely don’t have a deep resume filled with work experience. So be sure to include internships, volunteer work and any other acquired skills or training you’ve completed. Prepare multiple versions of your resume depending on the type of job you’re looking for, this will help you to submit the most relevant resume for the role.

Tip #2: Recent Graduates Should Grow and Expand Their Network

As a recent graduate you may think your network is small right now, but the connections you’ve made with other recent graduates, students, and professors are very valuable. Try to cultivate and expand your current network. Stay in touch with former professors and classmates. Stay connected to your school alumni, as well as alumni groups related to your major and any honor programs or clubs you participated in. A former pickleball partner could be the key to your dream job.

Tip #3: Recent Graduates Should Consider Using a Recruitment Firm

Searching for a new job is time-consuming and can be overwhelming. While you may want to do it independently, consider skipping the traditional job search and working with a recruitment firm. Recruitment firms are uniquely positioned to get you in front of employers looking for candidates like you.

Working with a recruitment firm also allows you to see a high-quality array of job offers, all pre-vetted and legitimate, so you can safely and confidently submit to them.

Conclusion

As a recent graduate, finding your first job after college can be an intimidating experience. However, if you take time to build your employee brand through a professional online presence, foster a solid network of diverse contacts, and work with a recruitment service like ABBTECH, you’ll be settling into your brand new job in no time.

For help finding your post-grad dream job, let ABBTECH lend you a hand!

Your company’s online reputation plays a significant role in driving overall recruitment, including passive candidates. Creating a solid, multi-faceted online presence that reflects your branding and values creates positive feelings in prospective job candidates and customers.

A multi-faceted company presence includes a well-managed website, social media profiles, videos, and other media. Reviews and testimonials are vital to your company’s online presence, showcasing your company culture and accomplishments.

Live Your Company Values

A company’s online reputation is what people say about you and what people see you do. Once you’ve formed a strong company culture and brand, you must consistently reflect your brand and values to others. Cultivate an offline presence for your company in the community. Find ways to demonstrate your values through charity sponsorship, participation, and volunteerism. Fostering a positive presence in your community as a company representative.

Revamp Your Job Descriptions

Too often, job descriptions are written to fill a position quickly rather than attract suitable candidates. Well-written job descriptions communicate your company’s mission and values and the opportunities for growth and advancement within the company. They can even interest a passive candidate enough to consider leaving their job, even if they otherwise like it.

Job descriptions should constantly evolve, adjusting to reach passive and active candidates. Focus on growing a diverse team that is qualified through education and experience.

Conclusion

If you want to attract highly qualified passive candidates to your company, you have to elevate your company’s public presence. Building a positive online reputation and public presence will solidify and demonstrate your company culture to potential candidates. Then you can more effectively attract top-quality passive candidates that will be a valuable asset for your company, adding value and meaningful contributions to your organization.

If you need help hiring, turn to ABBTECH today!

World Staffing Awards has named ABBTECH Professional Resources, Inc (ABBTECH) as one of the Top Staffing Companies to Work for in 2023. The award, presented by Candidate.Ly, recognizes superior achievement in performance and culture by top staffing companies. This year’s winners were honored during the World Staffing Summit, which took place on January 24, 2023.

About ABBTECH

In addition to being a top staffing company, ABBTECH is also a successful woman-owned business. ABBTECH has been built on a foundation envisioned by founder and CEO Kathleen C. Baker. Building on her employment service industry experience, Mrs. Baker focused on building a family-owned business that fosters a family-oriented culture for employees.  

Communication is at the heart of this dynamic. As a top staffing company, ABBTECH listens to their clients, connecting with them and forming meaningful relationships that help their clients achieve the results they are looking for. Whether assisting a business with its staffing needs or helping an IT candidate find their next position on their career path, ABBTECH is there.

Award-Winning Qualities

What makes ABBTECH an award-winning place to work? The same qualities that make them stand out as a staffing firm.

When you’re an employee at ABBTECH, you know ABBTECH is there for you. ABBTECH will take the time to understand where you’re coming from as an employee and individual. ABBTECH will work with you to meet your goals and rise to the challenges ahead so you can do your best.

They listen and speak to you. Clear communication is vital to building a positive workplace culture, and ABBTECH succeeds on multiple levels. You’ll always know where you stand, with the door open to talk and exchange feedback.

At ABBTECH, it’s their job to know the latest technology and strategies. Staying curious and bringing new ideas regularly keeps things fresh and competitive within the industry.

Conclusion

With over half a century of combined experience in the staffing industry, ABBTECH is dedicated to providing its clients with the best opportunities to find top-talent. For employees, ABBTECH offers an award-winning experience. If you’re a staffing professional eager to help people find their dream jobs and assist companies as they grow and thrive, then ABBTECH is the place for you.

Ready to find your dream job? Let our award-winning team help you search. Contact ABBTECH today!

Scheduled time off is always something to look forward to. For some of us, though, it can be anxiety-inducing. We worry about the work waiting for us or how people will feel about our absence. Your paid time off (PTO) should be relaxing and restful. With that in mind, here are four tips and tricks to help you improve your time off and make your PTO more enjoyable.

Tip #1: Plan your PTO well in advance.

The first way you can improve your time off is to plan for your time off as early as possible. If you are planning a vacation or want to take a specific holiday off, don’t wait to put in your request. This increases the chances you will get your time off. It also gives you ample time to rearrange your plans if you cannot get the time you want.

Tip #2: Prioritize tasks.

In the weeks before your PTO, take a serious look at the tasks you need to complete. Make a list of what needs to be done before you take time off and what can wait. When you organize your tasks this way, you’ll accomplish more and feel at ease during your time off.

Tip #3: Make a “To-Do” list.

Make a separate “to-do” list for when you return. Review all the tasks you determined can wait, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks when you return. Not only will this jog your memory when you return, but it will help your team be on the same page as you.

Tip #4: Let people know.

Don’t assume that your coworkers and clients know you’re scheduled for time off. Even if you have a courtesy Out of Office (OOO) reply to your correspondence, you may receive last-minute requests that add stress to your PTO. Take the time to let others know you’ll be unavailable and for how long. Also, provide an email contact for support, HR, or another department in case of emergency requests.

Conclusion

Your time off from work should be a period of relaxation and renewal. Don’t allow stress to creep in and ruin an otherwise enjoyable vacation. Taking a few steps to smooth the way, prioritize tasks, and let others know you’ll be away will improve your time off.

Looking for a new role? Start your search with ABBTECH today!

Being a manager means taking responsibility for your team, including handling and transforming the underperforming employee. When an employee isn’t pulling his or her weight, it affects the entire team’s performance.

If you feel like your team is suffering because of an underperforming employee, you have to consider why it’s happening and what you can do to manage it. Try these five steps to assess the situation and transform an underperforming employee:

1. Address the Problem

When an employee is underperforming, you want to address the issue immediately. Be tactful and discuss their poor performance with constructive criticism. Explain that you’ve observed a decline in their work and wondered if something is happening. Listen to your employee, paying attention to any cue for conflict or a need for further training. Also, consider that there may be issues outside of work.

2. Set Attainable Goals

A good manager will allow the employee to turn things around and improve his or her performance. Identify resources and tools to help the employee improve their work situation. Look for support options as well, such as professional training and software. It is essential that you make clear your expectation for performance improvement.

3. Assess Progress and Provide Feedback

Set aside time to assess your employee’s progress and provide feedback. Ask about any challenges they are facing and what support would be helpful. Recognize what the employee is doing well and what needs work. Ensure that you document these meetings.

4. Reward Performance Improvement

A word of encouragement can go a long way toward improving performance quality. If an underperforming employee is trying to improve, acknowledge it. A kind word of praise will help them stay on track and provide a positive incentive and guidance as they continue to improve.

5. Know When to Let Go

One of the most challenging aspects of transforming an underperforming employee is when you recognize that you can’t help them. Sometimes even the best efforts, guidance, and support cannot motivate an employee to up their performance. If you have provided ample opportunities and assistance and their performance is still lacking, it may be time to part ways. Though this is a difficult task, every effective manager needs to be able to make this call.

Conclusion

As a manager, you are responsible for your team and their performance. Being aware of your team and prepared with the steps above, you can quickly step in and turn things around.

Need help building your all-star team? Get in touch with ABBTECH today!

Looking for a new job is exciting. It can also quickly become overwhelming if you haven’t adequately prepared. If you’re considering leaving your current job for something new, you need to know how to get organized as it can maximize your chance of success. In this blog, we’ll discuss some of our top tips to help you prepare for your job search. We’ll also look at what you should do before you quit your current role.

Tips for How To Get Organized

Tip #1: Update your resumes and portfolios.

Your resume usually determines whether you are invited to a job interview. You can improve your chances of getting that invitation by optimizing your resume. Pay close attention to the experience and skill requirements in the job listing. One of the benefits of knowing how to get organized can be the fact that you don’t need to redo your resume for every application. Instead, have a base resume and minor modifications to emphasize your skills matching the job description.

Ensure that your online portfolio of work is up-to-date and applicable as well. Refresh your samples frequently and maintain a diverse portfolio to appeal to a range of potential employers.

Tip #2: Collect your references.

References are another essential part of the application process. Ensure you have a few professional and personal references collected to include with your application. Make sure you talk to each reference and ask their permission before using their name. Also, get up-to-date contact information for them, including their online professional pages such as LinkedIn.

Tip #3: Clean up your online presence.

Speaking of online presence now is a good time to look at your professional and personal profiles and clean them up. Potential employers look at social media profiles, so you must ensure that what you present is how you wish to be seen. Your professional profiles on sites such as LinkedIn should be current and explained well. Have a coworker or manager look at your professional profiles and give you their thoughts and suggestions for improvement.

Tip #4: Plan for your job transition.

Before submitting the first application, you must consider what happens if you get the job. Leaving your current job could mean a lapse in benefits coverage. You’ll also have to plan for transitional funds to get you from your last paycheck there to your first at the new job. Investments and retirement funds may need to be rolled over or completely redone. And if the new job requires relocation, all the financial and organizational issues also. Planning for transition before getting a new job will alleviate much stress and frustration down the road.

If you’re ready to start your search for a new job, consider searching with ABBTECH today!

Many companies are making changes in an effort to attract top talent and retain more workers. One concept generating interest and increasing in popularity is the 4-day work week. The 4-day work week compresses the traditional 40-hour work week into four days or shortens it to 32 hours a week.

Modifying the work week in this way helps many businesses keep employees productive and engaged. As with any concept, there are some downsides, too. In this blog, we’ll look at the pros and cons of implementing a 4-day workweek for your company. Is a 4-day workweek the right decision for you? Read on to find out!

Pros & Cons of the 4-Day Workweek

4-Day Work Week – Pros

Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

For most employees, the added flexibility and better work-life balance that a 4-day workweek provides is the most important advantage. With so many employees struggling during and following the pandemic, preventing burnout and handling mental health issues have become priorities. Having an extra day off a week or working shorter hours gives employees extra time to handle their families and personal health.

Increased efficiency and productivity

A lot of time is wasted at work, most of it through inefficiency and mismanagement. Many employees say they can do their jobs in five hours or less. Reducing the work hours each week, or compressing them, allows employees to work smarter rather than harder. Instead of wasting time on work tasks that aren’t related to their job, they can focus on their core job. Employees are more productive, produce better quality work, and, ultimately, save the company money.

Improved recruitment and retention

People are tired of work being the center of their lives. The 4-day workweek appeals to job seekers’ need for employment that is efficient, purposeful, and healthy. Businesses that switch to a 4-day workweek see a boost in their organization’s ability to attract and retain the right talent.

4-Day Work Week – Cons

Existing Negative Bias

The biggest disadvantage of implementing a 4-day workweek is the negative bias against it that still exists. Some managers, employers, and even employees are concerned that switching to a 4-day workweek could negatively affect the company. Fear of decreased sales and revenue and reduced productivity, as well as the potential effects on customer service and the company brand, discourage many from offering a compressed or shortened work week.

Increased Operating Costs in Certain Industries

Post-pandemic, most businesses have seen their operating costs go up. Inflation, energy prices, supply chain disruptions, and consumer demands have all driven up costs. For some industries, the additional costs of adding more workers to cover the adjustment in work hours may not be an attractive feature of the 4-day workweek.

Conclusion

A 4-day workweek comes with a lot of positives and few negatives. If you’re ready to increase productivity, reduce employee turnover, offer a better work-life balance, and more, then the 4-day workweek is an ideal choice for you.

If you need help building your dream team in 2023, contact our team today!

If you’ve been working toward a promotion at work, you may wonder if you can improve your chances of getting it in 2023. Earning a promotion raises your position in a company, as well as increasing your salary, benefits, and sense of accomplishment. Below are 3 tips to help you earn a promotion this year.

When you’re ready for a promotion, the key is catching your employer’s attention. While your job performance, knowledge, experience, and skills are essential, they may not be enough. If you are ready to earn that promotion you’ve been working towards, follow these helpful tips to increase your chances.

Get Yourself Noticed to Help Earn a Promotion

You know you deserve a promotion, but does your employer? Even if you’ve been working towards a promotion for years, your employer may not know you’re interested. You need to put yourself in a visible position and show your employer why you deserve to be promoted.

Demonstrate your leadership skills and the positive contributions you make to the company. Look for opportunities when you can showcase your knowledge, abilities, and accomplishments. Performance reviews and staff meetings are great opportunities to shine your light.

Continue to learn and broaden your knowledge and skills through educational courses and programs. If your company sponsors opportunities to learn, take advantage of them. Constantly seeking improvement and growth increases your value as an employee and improves your chances of promotion recommendation.

To Help Earn a Promotion – Pay Attention

Look at the promotion history of your company and your team. What achievements, habits, or personality traits helped other employees earn promotions? Understanding the skills and experience that helped others succeed will guide you in your pursuit of advancement.

Talk to Your Employer

Want to know exactly how to get promoted at work? Talk to your employer. They are the best source of information about the promotion process. Plus, they can provide you with valuable feedback on your performance and what you need to do to move forward.

When you talk to your employer or supervisor, make your case for promotion. Be professional and include your current responsibilities and achievements. Show them how your work has benefited the company; include specific examples. Be specific when you let them know you are interested in promotion and follow their suggestions to increase your chances of success.

Conclusion

When you’re ready to go after that promotion at work, having effective strategies and goals keeps you motivated. Focus on professional improvement and get noticed for all the right reasons so you can achieve your career goals in the new year.

If you are ready to advance your career in the new year, consider searching with ABBTECH today!

Finding entry-level employment in any industry can be difficult, especially in the tech industry. With hot software development positions rising, standing out among more experienced competition can be tough. Tips on how to stand out as an entry-level developer are below.

So, how can you stand out as an entry-level developer with so much competition? Read on for valuable tips to get noticed and land your dream job.

Tips to Help Your Stand Out and Get Hired as an Entry-Level Developer

Let’s look at some top tips to help you stand out as you pursue an entry-level development position.

Build Up Your Skill Set

Being successful as a developer requires constant learning and practice. Many recruiters require you to demonstrate your abilities with tests or assessments, so building your skill set is vital. Learn independently and expand your awareness of new tools, tech languages, and frameworks.

Build Your Portfolio

When your experience is limited, your portfolio can get you in the door. Your portfolio is the place to demonstrate your skills and interests. Your portfolio is an easy way to show employers what you can do and how well you can do it.

Remember to keep your portfolio up to date and ensure that any sample links are easy to access. Also, include projects you worked on individually and as part of a team.

Update Your Resume

The best way to prepare your resume for successful submission is to focus on what you’re including. Try looking at job descriptions for the development roles you’re interested in. You’ll soon notice a pattern among posts and can focus on the most relevant information. For non-tech work history, list first what experience could be potentially useful in a tech role. Also, consider a separate section for significant personal projects to demonstrate your real-world experience.

Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile

Make it simple for employers to learn about you from your LinkedIn page. It should be as robust as your resume, if not more so. You can make your profile work for you in the job search. Use your “About” section to present yourself as a prospective candidate. This is a great chance to state who you are, what you can do, and why you care about development work.

Don’t forget to detail your skills, add your certifications and achievements, and help employers get a feel for you and your tech interests under the “Interests” section.

Grow Your Professional Network

Your network connection may be the key to your next entry-level development role. Ensure you foster those connections with current and former coworkers, managers, and other professionals. The more people within the industry you connect with and stay connected with, the more likely you are to discover new jobs and get hired.

Our team is ready to lend a hand if you’re currently searching for your first developer role!

Employees are leaving the workforce at an alarming rate, and the hiring struggle will likely continue. Now is the time to nail down your hiring needs. The sooner you create a solid hiring plan and implement it, the sooner you’ll fill those job openings.

Anticipate Your Hiring Needs

Calculate how many positions you need to fill during the first quarter. Remember to consider your budget when you determine your hiring needs. Even if the job roles do not need to be filled immediately, start recruiting as soon as possible. Keep your candidate pools filled with potential applicants in mind.

Talk with Your Recruitment Partners

Meet with your internal and external recruitment partners and discuss your hiring needs. Talk about the candidate qualification you need and any niche roles that require filling. Also, discuss networks, skills, and strategies your recruitment team has at hand to maximize the talent search.

Focus on Your Brand Identity

Take a step back and look at your company’s brand identity, including your recruitment process. Consider what makes you unique and why job seekers want to join the company. Also, join your recruitment team and go through your employer reviews. See what issues others have had with your company and how you can address those issues.

Promote Your Available Positions

Work with your recruitment team to promote your available roles to job seekers. Focus on what candidates look for in an employer and develop compelling messaging to attract job seekers. Use your company website, social media, and other channels and platforms to reach candidates.

Move Quickly

The best talent is most likely receiving multiple job offers. You’ll need to make fast decisions during the hiring process and keep candidates engaged through ongoing communication and feedback. Keeping them informed throughout the process and answering their questions promptly will help keep them interested.

Evaluate Your Hiring Process

Your hiring process should be constantly evaluated. Review the rate of applicants, what area receives the most and which the least, and when candidates are most likely to “ghost” during the hiring process. Then, you can take this information and modify your hiring process as needed.

If you need help creating your all-star team, request a consultation with ABBTECH!