Ashley A. Reed, PHR
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TOP IDEA:
Ashley A. Reed, PHR
I wrote a blog post on attire for interviewing, found here: http://wp.me/p1NpmY-1l However I still believe men should wear ties and if women are going to wear a skirt they do need to wear pantyhose (although I skip it altogether and wear a pant suit personally). I'm curious if everyone believes the same or if times really are changing in our generation?
Chris Parker:
I agree that Men should wear ties and a nice suit. I wore a suit and tie when I applied for a Barrista job at Starbucks
1 week ago
1 week ago
Noel Rozny:
I am always surprised when candidates arrive for interviews and they are NOT in a suit/tie/etc. Even if the company you're applying to is business ...MoreI am always surprised when candidates arrive for interviews and they are NOT in a suit/tie/etc. Even if the company you're applying to is business casual, you're there to impress them.
1 week ago
1 week ago
TOP IDEA:
Ashley A. Reed, PHR
Transitioning from Employee to Manager - As a manager, you’ll know when you hit a professional level of emotional maturity when you’re able to let go of the need for your employees to like you. http://wp.me/p1NpmY-1u
Jason H. Parker
What do y'all think of this article about educated college graduates "in limbo": http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/01/fashion/recent-college-graduates-wait-...
Ashley A. Reed, PHR:
Interesting! And frankly given the economy, not entirely surprising. I can't help but to think 10 years down the road; the level of work ethic and ...MoreInteresting! And frankly given the economy, not entirely surprising. I can't help but to think 10 years down the road; the level of work ethic and ambition from many going through this should rise to equal some amazing professionals once things turn around for them. My own struggle into and then up in the corporate world (I was on my own at 16) taught me WAY more than any education ever did about both work ethic and living life for myself and taking time to enjoy things I love.
23 weeks ago
23 weeks ago
Chris Parker
Texas passes a law making it possible for employees to carry a gun to work. Sure they have to leave the gun in their car, but does this not worry anyone else?
http://www.workforce.com/section/legal/feature/annie-get-your-gunand-bri...
23 weeks ago from myFootpath
Chris Parker:
This is about keeping employees safe and free from potential deadly work place violence.
23 weeks ago
23 weeks ago
JOHN HAMMACK:
she works in a place where there is an unsecured parking lot in an urban area. As long as someone knows what end of the gun the bullet comes out, ...Moreshe works in a place where there is an unsecured parking lot in an urban area. As long as someone knows what end of the gun the bullet comes out, justice and protection are free. The police can show up and take a report on what happened to the criminal, not what happened to my grandmother.
Of course you don't take a gun into the building and "brandish" it-at least not unless you percieve a threat. You don't walk around with a board with a nail in it either. I think they should reduce federal taxes on every honest citizen-using CJIS records checks- by about $300 dollars next year and require they purchase a gun for home protection with the savings. You want to see crime drop and employment rise? Make the alternative unappealing.
23 weeks ago
Of course you don't take a gun into the building and "brandish" it-at least not unless you percieve a threat. You don't walk around with a board with a nail in it either. I think they should reduce federal taxes on every honest citizen-using CJIS records checks- by about $300 dollars next year and require they purchase a gun for home protection with the savings. You want to see crime drop and employment rise? Make the alternative unappealing.
23 weeks ago
Ashley A. Reed, PHR
Question for HR Professionals – I’m looking at implementing a bonus program for employee referrals. I’m curious what program design suggestions you may have? Any issues or problems you've encountered?
Tracy Brisson:
ERE.net just ran a two-part series on best practices for employee referral programs. It was really informative if you'd like to check it out.
23 weeks ago
23 weeks ago
TOP IDEA:
Ashley A. Reed, PHR
Question for HR Professionals – I’m looking at implementing a bonus program for employee referrals. I’m curious what program design suggestions you may have? Any issues or problems you've encountered?
Noel Rozny
Does a bad interview imply a bad working environment? http://bit.ly/nH0kNl (via GlassDoor.Com) What do you think? Have you ever had a bad feeling in a job interview and wish you had listened to it later? Or not taken job offer because the interview totally put you off the company?
27 weeks ago from myFootpath
Ashley A. Reed, PHR, Becky Benishek and Chris Parker recommended this
Becky Benishek:
@Chris, they could have put that question in a much more positive way if there was real concern about it. Though it's probably better they got ...More@Chris, they could have put that question in a much more positive way if there was real concern about it. Though it's probably better they got their concerns out in the open so you had a chance to address it up front.
23 weeks ago
23 weeks ago
Chris Parker:
@Becky When the person asked the question the team leader stated out loud, do not answer that, you cannot ask that kind of question. I would have ...More@Becky When the person asked the question the team leader stated out loud, do not answer that, you cannot ask that kind of question. I would have been happy to explain since my knee was out of joint and once it was popped back in there have been no issues with it so not limping anymore
23 weeks ago
23 weeks ago
Brett Kunsch
As we wind down the final 2 weeks of the year, let's end it on a radically awesome note. Fellow Brazen Careerists, I invite you to fill in the blank > "In 2010, I totally kicked butt at____________."
59 weeks ago from Career Rocketeer, GenYJourney: Tips, Insights, Experiences For Young Professionals, Professional Development and Personal Development2 more
Elysa Rice, Brittany Thompson and Aurian Campbell recommended this
Brittany Thompson:
being location independent for a while, having some of the happiest moments in my life (so far), learning a lot about myself and those around me, ...Morebeing location independent for a while, having some of the happiest moments in my life (so far), learning a lot about myself and those around me, moving forward with my business, networking, learning new coding languages and expanding the ones I already knew, doing the P90X and Insanity workouts, and making a pretty awesome batch of buckeye candies this holiday season
59 weeks ago
59 weeks ago
Aurian Campbell:
... finding a (very jam-packed) balance with life, work, exercise, relationships, writing and alone time; and
... negotiating $!.
53 weeks ago
53 weeks ago
Dain
What "ONE" thing would you say got you the job you're currently in?
Sadya Siddiqui recommended this
Justin Coetzee:
Confidence! I strode into the interview and swatted their curveballs right back at them... If you act like part of the team already, you will get ...MoreConfidence! I strode into the interview and swatted their curveballs right back at them... If you act like part of the team already, you will get yourself hired.
58 weeks ago
58 weeks ago
Mag Wolff
How do you answer questions about salary during an interview? Both current and expected salary. Normally I try to tip toe around giving a concrete answer, but sometimes it is unavoidable. Thanks!
Rebecca Thorman, Tanya Veleva and Brittany Thompson recommended this
Mag Wolff:
Charlie, thank you for your insight. Follow-up question - if I am asked straight out what is my current salary or what do I expect to make, is it ...MoreCharlie, thank you for your insight. Follow-up question - if I am asked straight out what is my current salary or what do I expect to make, is it appropriate instead of directly answering the question, for me to ask the recruiter what is the salary range for this position?
Also, is it ever appropriate to ask what was the salary of the person who previously held the position? I probably never would be so bold, but it was something that crossed my mind.
56 weeks ago
Also, is it ever appropriate to ask what was the salary of the person who previously held the position? I probably never would be so bold, but it was something that crossed my mind.
56 weeks ago
Charlie Anderson:
Good questions, Maggie. As usual, my response has to consider what I do vs. what other people do. Because I pay the same regardless, my process ...MoreGood questions, Maggie. As usual, my response has to consider what I do vs. what other people do. Because I pay the same regardless, my process is more straightforward. I don't care for the notion that if you reply with a low salary, the recruiter will lower their offer.
If you're asked to reveal what you're looking for, I'd say the best response is something like "I'm interviewing for a number of positions that range from $50,000 to about $70,000 (insert your own numbers). Where does this position fit?" That gives you plenty of wiggle room, demonstrates that you're an active and serious job searcher, that you have other options, and that other employers are interested in you. (You'd be surprised, but social proof of other employers taking interest is a powerful factor in the interview process.) It should also give you an idea for the position you're interested in.
If you're asked to reveal what you currently make, tell the truth. Not everyone will give you the same advice, as you've read here. That's just my opinion, but it's because I don't believe your past salary is important relative to the job you propose to do. I do know you can't legally be forced to reveal that information. I'm unsure if your current (or previous) employer would reveal that info, but I know they can't be forced to. The problem is if you said "I'm not comfortable answering that question," things get awkward. Awkward interviews rarely result in job offers. If your current salary is much less than you want in a new role, that's okay to say. "I'm currently making $43,000, which is one of the reasons why I'm looking for a change." Recruiters understand, and they'll respect your honesty. Unfortunately, you'll never know if the offer you receive is lower than it would have been if you didn't tell them your salary. But I still think honesty on your part and an open, comfortable dialog is the fastest road to a job offer.
As for asking about the previous person's salary: I wouldn't. You wouldn't ask that employee directly about their salary, and their employer shouldn't tell you, either. They should, however, tell you the salary range for the position.
56 weeks ago
If you're asked to reveal what you're looking for, I'd say the best response is something like "I'm interviewing for a number of positions that range from $50,000 to about $70,000 (insert your own numbers). Where does this position fit?" That gives you plenty of wiggle room, demonstrates that you're an active and serious job searcher, that you have other options, and that other employers are interested in you. (You'd be surprised, but social proof of other employers taking interest is a powerful factor in the interview process.) It should also give you an idea for the position you're interested in.
If you're asked to reveal what you currently make, tell the truth. Not everyone will give you the same advice, as you've read here. That's just my opinion, but it's because I don't believe your past salary is important relative to the job you propose to do. I do know you can't legally be forced to reveal that information. I'm unsure if your current (or previous) employer would reveal that info, but I know they can't be forced to. The problem is if you said "I'm not comfortable answering that question," things get awkward. Awkward interviews rarely result in job offers. If your current salary is much less than you want in a new role, that's okay to say. "I'm currently making $43,000, which is one of the reasons why I'm looking for a change." Recruiters understand, and they'll respect your honesty. Unfortunately, you'll never know if the offer you receive is lower than it would have been if you didn't tell them your salary. But I still think honesty on your part and an open, comfortable dialog is the fastest road to a job offer.
As for asking about the previous person's salary: I wouldn't. You wouldn't ask that employee directly about their salary, and their employer shouldn't tell you, either. They should, however, tell you the salary range for the position.
56 weeks ago
Becky Benishek
I was wondering about the etiquette of email signatures. I think we all should have something that tells people who we are and where to find us, but when you're a job seeker, should you actually put "Job Seeker" in your email sig? Is that tacky or a smart move? (My mini-post here: http://bit.ly/fHywf0 )
Timothy Johnson III:
In addition, with WiseStamp, you can create both a personal and professional email signature, so you can pick and choose which signature you want ...MoreIn addition, with WiseStamp, you can create both a personal and professional email signature, so you can pick and choose which signature you want to use depending on who is going to receive the email.
56 weeks ago
56 weeks ago
Becky Benishek:
@Marc, I like those LinkedIn profile buttons a lot!
I am currently debating over using WiseStamp or just opting for a few links that really ...More@Marc, I like those LinkedIn profile buttons a lot!
I am currently debating over using WiseStamp or just opting for a few links that really express who I am and what I'm looking for.
56 weeks ago
I am currently debating over using WiseStamp or just opting for a few links that really ...More@Marc, I like those LinkedIn profile buttons a lot!
I am currently debating over using WiseStamp or just opting for a few links that really express who I am and what I'm looking for.
56 weeks ago
Whitney May Parker
When you're in a job that has a set end-date, how do you stay productive and engaged until the very end, knowing that you won't be able to follow through on new projects or future engagements? What strategies do you use to keep projects moving ahead and keep bosses and co-workers satisfied with your work and level-of-commitment?
Ashley A. Reed, PHR:
Whitney,
While I haven't personally being in that situation before, a former co-worker of mine currently is. She confided in me about four ...MoreWhitney,
While I haven't personally being in that situation before, a former co-worker of mine currently is. She confided in me about four months ago that her contract would be up at the end of the year, and she was already worried and looking for something else - all while struggling to keep going on her current work. The advice I gave her was that she should try to keep momentum on the project because she'd likely get a good reference from it, if nothing else. She ended up finishing the project, and while they didn't need anyone in the position she was in, they chose to hire her on full-time last month for another (very similar) position. While I'm sure that doesn't happen in every circumstance, stayed motivated to see the job through can reap it's rewards; and you never know which one will one day turn into a permanent offer. And sometimes just having that reference that says "wow, we really would have loved to have hired her if we could; you'd be crazy to pass her up!" will give you an added boost for the next opportunity that comes along.
57 weeks ago
While I haven't personally being in that situation before, a former co-worker of mine currently is. She confided in me about four ...MoreWhitney,
While I haven't personally being in that situation before, a former co-worker of mine currently is. She confided in me about four months ago that her contract would be up at the end of the year, and she was already worried and looking for something else - all while struggling to keep going on her current work. The advice I gave her was that she should try to keep momentum on the project because she'd likely get a good reference from it, if nothing else. She ended up finishing the project, and while they didn't need anyone in the position she was in, they chose to hire her on full-time last month for another (very similar) position. While I'm sure that doesn't happen in every circumstance, stayed motivated to see the job through can reap it's rewards; and you never know which one will one day turn into a permanent offer. And sometimes just having that reference that says "wow, we really would have loved to have hired her if we could; you'd be crazy to pass her up!" will give you an added boost for the next opportunity that comes along.
57 weeks ago
Ryan Paugh
We did something really radical today and stopped featuring blog posts on the sidebar of Brazen. Instead, we're featuring trending discussion because all of the conversations you guys have is where the real value is for anybody trying to build their network. What do you think? Are you happy or sad? Anyone want to punch me in the neck? We want to know...
Ryan Healy, Ashley A. Reed, PHR, Karolyn Chowning and Robin Mills and 1 others recommended this
Nathan Sorrell:
Good job! This site is too much like a self-help book on infinite feedback. I want customers for my flooring business in the Denver Metropolitan ...MoreGood job! This site is too much like a self-help book on infinite feedback. I want customers for my flooring business in the Denver Metropolitan area! There, see how easy it is to state your business, and go on? So far, I haven't seen one single person in here who doesn't sound like a patient at a phychiatric clinic. For $60,000 a year I'll cut through the nonsense at your company like Genghis Khan raiding villages in China, if you want to hire me. Like what you hear? It's called "clarity", "sense of purpose", and "maturity", all of which seem to be lacking here. Just say what you mean, and mean what you say, that's all I ask.
59 weeks ago
59 weeks ago
Nathan Sorrell:
Oops, I misspelled "Psychiatric", for a spelling Nazi like me that is a fate worse than death....:(
59 weeks ago
59 weeks ago
Ryan Paugh
Hey Austin! At Olga's request we're going to create a #Brazen Twitter List for all of the fine people down in/around Austin, TX. Leave your Twitter ID below and we'll start building the list tomorrow morning!
82 weeks ago from Austin Texas
Olga Garcia and Paul Blackwell recommended this
Dr. Woody
Great BusinessWeek article on Gen Yers flocking to Etiquette training! Any thoughts??? Is Etiquette an issue in the modern workplace??? http://ow.ly/2Wtvb
68 weeks ago from I am Gen Y, Brazen Careerist's Top 50 Gen-Y Companies, Gen-Y Professional Bloggers, GenYJourney: Tips, Insights, Experiences For Young Professionals and The Career Hot Seat!3 more
Ashley A. Reed, PHR recommended this
Mark W.:
Thanks Dr. Woody for the heads up on a very informative article.
One thing that was missing from the article, though, was the stats on enrollments ...MoreThanks Dr. Woody for the heads up on a very informative article.
One thing that was missing from the article, though, was the stats on enrollments in etiquette training schools based on generation of the students.
67 weeks ago
One thing that was missing from the article, though, was the stats on enrollments ...MoreThanks Dr. Woody for the heads up on a very informative article.
One thing that was missing from the article, though, was the stats on enrollments in etiquette training schools based on generation of the students.
67 weeks ago
Dr. Woody:
Thanks everyone for all the great comments! This article definitley sparked conversation in a number of forums!
66 weeks ago
66 weeks ago
David Spinks
Should job searchers focus on creativity? What is the most creative way you've seen someone apply for a job that worked?
68 weeks ago from Citi
Nicolò Wojewoda:
From what I can tell, based on this conversation, the more the job you're applying for requires and values creativity, the better your chances are ...MoreFrom what I can tell, based on this conversation, the more the job you're applying for requires and values creativity, the better your chances are if you get creative in your application. Otherwise, it can at most help you get your foot through the door, but nothing beyond that.
67 weeks ago
67 weeks ago
Ryan Paugh
During my first couple weeks of doing the Location-Independent thing I've found that taking mini breaks really helps keep me focused. 10-minute breaks to take out the garbage, wash some dishes or throw in a load of laundry really helps me clear my mind. Any of you guys take mini breaks to keep yourself sane while working from home?
Jamie Nacht Farrell:
Thanks! If only I was disciplined enough to always stick to it ( ; Maybe I could make that a 'goal' as well!
67 weeks ago
67 weeks ago
Ryan Paugh:
Elisa, you make a good point. When I used to work in the office I took 5+ coffee breaks and spent a good 15 bones a day at the local cafe. At ...MoreElisa, you make a good point. When I used to work in the office I took 5+ coffee breaks and spent a good 15 bones a day at the local cafe. At least I'm saving some dough!
Leslie, it's times like this that make me miss my lab (http://bit.ly/8fsTm1). Unfortunately, I had to find him a new home when my office hours become too insane. Bummer :(
67 weeks ago
Leslie, it's times like this that make me miss my lab (http://bit.ly/8fsTm1). Unfortunately, I had to find him a new home when my office hours become too insane. Bummer :(
67 weeks ago
Dan Schawbel
What is the #1 thing that would turn you away from a candidate?
69 weeks ago from Citi
Maura V. Pingor:
@Dan and @Anne: I have to agree with Anne. When a candidate applies for a job, they should at least know what is the industry Citi is in.
68 weeks ago
68 weeks ago
Ashley A. Reed, PHR:
I agree with the question about what the company does; it demonstrates the person didn't bother to take the time to do their research and shows a ...MoreI agree with the question about what the company does; it demonstrates the person didn't bother to take the time to do their research and shows a lack of interest in the company. I'm also turned off from excessive typos in a resume.
Most recently, my top frustration is interviewing an individual who informs me their salary is $15K higher than what the position will offer, when the salary range was provided in the job posting. I specifically will include the salary of the position to weed out individuals who may be over-qualified or have made a significantly higher salary, and it's a waste of my time to get to the end of an interview only to find out they didn't read the job description before applying.
68 weeks ago
Most recently, my top frustration is interviewing an individual who informs me their salary is $15K higher than what the position will offer, when the salary range was provided in the job posting. I specifically will include the salary of the position to weed out individuals who may be over-qualified or have made a significantly higher salary, and it's a waste of my time to get to the end of an interview only to find out they didn't read the job description before applying.
68 weeks ago
Ashley A. Reed, PHR
A couple years ago I went back to school (in addition to working) to finish my bachelors in HR Management. As I'm nearing the end, I'm considering an MBA program however I'm rather exhausted and burnt out.
I'm curious as to other professional HR opinions - is it enough to have to HR degree and the PHR/SPHR certification (and some level of experience in operations) if a person wants to eventually move into a senior level position? Or is an MBA the new norm and standard?
Bryon Ownby and Ben Eubanks recommended this
Bryon Ownby:
That's a good question to ponder. As I'm seeking out new opportunities myself, it seems as though Senior Director and above desires a MBA (or ...MoreThat's a good question to ponder. As I'm seeking out new opportunities myself, it seems as though Senior Director and above desires a MBA (or some type of advanced degree) or to have 15-20 years of experience one.
68 weeks ago
68 weeks ago
Kent:
Having a professional HR Certification has helped me immensely. I saw "instant" results after earning it. An MBA is also a great because it helps ...MoreHaving a professional HR Certification has helped me immensely. I saw "instant" results after earning it. An MBA is also a great because it helps to make you stand out above the competition (and there's a lot of competition these days!).
68 weeks ago
68 weeks ago
Elysa Rice
love this post from Brazen member, Caitlin McCabe - The New Office and Coworking Couples. http://dlvr.it/6zB64 although I met my boyfriend at my last job I don't think we'd work well together if we both worked from home. how about you?
69 weeks ago from Power Couples and Young Professional Women (YPW)
Ashley A. Reed, PHR:
Interesting article and perspective! Actually I know one couple in particular that started a business together, and they work very well in their ...MoreInteresting article and perspective! Actually I know one couple in particular that started a business together, and they work very well in their environment. My husband and I met at a prior job, however we didn't start dating until I was beginning to job hunt for a new position to get back into HR. Having a background with a professional relationship was awkward at first, but I held a lot of respect for him. For a brief time, we carpooled and worked together and that worked well for us. In the long run however, I think we're not the "working together" type. He still works at the same company, so we can connect and discuss current events going on within the company and I have a deeper understanding of it (which is nice). Another positive is that we work well together doing home improvement projects now, because we know each others style in how we go about tackling different tasks.
69 weeks ago
69 weeks ago
Elysa Rice:
I'd say I agree that the transition for us from coworkers to dating was an interesting dance as well. We do projects together as well.
69 weeks ago
69 weeks ago
Ashley A. Reed, PHR
joined the group Young Professional Women (YPW)
69 weeks ago
Angie
Does anyone else experience this:
Fellow employee enters and asks about random policy or, for example, the payout frequency of LTD.
Your brain freezes and you go for your handbook even though you've been in the department for 6 years....
Ashley A. Reed, PHR:
YES! I can definitely understand where you're coming from Angie. It usually happens when I'm in the middle of five other things and my brain is ...MoreYES! I can definitely understand where you're coming from Angie. It usually happens when I'm in the middle of five other things and my brain is just otherwise occupied. I tend to not be too concerned though; sometimes I'll look something up with a comment on wanting to clarify all the details or I'll let the person know I'll come find them or shoot them an e-mail in a couple minutes when I finish up whatever it is I'm focused on.
69 weeks ago
69 weeks ago
Ashley A. Reed, PHR became a fan of Citi
69 weeks ago
Ashley A. Reed, PHR
RT @BrazenCareerist: Guess what? We're rallying together for another #Brazen Meetup! More info over here --> http://bit.ly/9aSA0P <-- Spread the word!!!
74 weeks ago from
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