Top 10 Strategies for Keeping Your Job

July 28, 2009

Unfortunately, Hawaii’s unemployment rate is still at 7.4 percent so here are the top 10 simple strategies to help you do your job well so you don’t increase that statistic.

  1. Arrive to work on time and report to work late or absent only if absolutely necessary. Repeatedly showing up late for work may jeopardize future pay increases and may be subject for dismissal.
  2. Be professional in dress and in attitude. A professional appearance presents a confident image of being able to perform your job.
  3. Come to work with a positive attitude. Be a happy employee who is willing to share ideas with others and show enthusiasm.
  4. Complete tasks beyond your job description. Help co-workers finish their projects and volunteer to assist with future assignments.
  5. Learn new skills and/or pursue certifications/education relevant to your field or company’s industry. Take a class, read a book, and keep up with trade publications related to your industry.
  6. If you like your job, SAY you like it. Make sure your supervisor knows you enjoy what you do and respect the company you work for.
  7. Be flexible. This may include taking on additional duties, being able to be “cross trained” in other areas. People who are demanding or difficult take too much time and energy, and supervisors will use downsizing as a chance to rid themselves of those employees with bad attitudes.
  8. Be visible. Be sure your manager knows what you are doing and how you are contributing.
  9. Help your company cut costs and increase business. Suggest ways of efficient spending in the workplace and increase revenue/production/service level in your position, department and overall in your company.
  10. Look for ways to align your goals with your organization’s goals. You should meet with your manager and find out what the goals and directions is for the company and help align what they do on a daily basis to help the company achieve the goals. Ask, “How does what I do help the company get where it wants to be? How can I be more effective and help the company be more effective?” This will make you and your work even more valuable to the company.

Interview Success for the Fashionista

July 25, 2009

When going to a  job interview, first impressions are critical. You are marketing yourself to potential employers and the first thing they will judge when meeting you is your attire. Dressing appropriately will create a positive first impression and a competitive edge.

 Today’s focus for fashion is for the ladies and appropriate attire for office or industrial positions.

 1.    General Tips

  • Dress for the right part. Don’t go to an interview for a landscaping position in a suit and tie, or interview for a finance position in casual pants and a polo shirt.
  • Remember, the interview is about you, not your clothes. Stay away from loud, distracting colors and patterns that make it difficult to concentrate on your qualifications.

 2.    Be well-groomed

  • Make sure your hair is neatly trimmed and groomed. (This includes facial hair such as beards and mustaches.)
  • No excessive cologne
  • No big handbags
  • No excessive jewelry that makes noise when you move
  • Make sure you dress comfortably
  • Don’t have gum, candy or any other object in your mouth
  • Turn off your cell phone or pagers or leave them in the car

 3. Attire for Professional/Office Positions:

  • Make sure your clothes are neatly pressed
  • Socks should coordinate with suit/pants
  • Aloha shirts are OK as long as they are crisp and tucked in
  • Belt should match shoes
  • Wear nicely polished dress shoes
  • No visible body piercing (nose rings, eyebrow rings, etc.)

 4. Attire for Industrial Positions:

  • Wear appropriate work shoes or boots
  • No tank tops
  • No jeans or clothes that have holes
  • No slippers
  • No t-shirts with logos or sayings
  • No hats
  • No sunglasses
  • Make sure outfit is neatly pressed
  • Make sure the outfit “fits” - Not too tight, not too baggy… just right!

Watch  ALTRES on KITV4  for more about dressing for success
Fashion Tips For Women Going To A Job Interview

Taking the time to follow these simple rules will ensure your fashionista style has you looking great from head to toe.


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