It’s the beginning of the New Year, and people are making all sorts of resolutions. I am no different. However, this year I am not vowing to lay off the sweets or shed those holiday pounds. I’m taking a bit of a different direction than most, and I have decided to put more time and energy into building my network.

Out of everything that I have learned thus far in my career, the most important is that networking is vital for success. In our business, it is all about knowing who’s who in the local community. Today, there are a million different ways to meet new people, but I want to know which method YOU prefer.

We have all attended local group meetings, made cold calls, and utilized LinkedIn for referrals/general networking. But which method is the best? Each of them has their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Local Group meetings are great, because let’s face it, nothing can ever replace a firm handshake.  Cold calls also have their value, because you can reach more people, while still letting your personality shine through. Lastly, LinkedIn also has its place among my top networking tools, because there is simply not another outlet, where you can touch so many people.

But unfortunately, these channels can only reach so far. So here is why I am proposing two questions: 1) What other forms of networking are out there? 2) Which method do you prefer?

Please comment on this post or shoot me a piece of mail, and let me know your thoughts. With your help, let’s make my New Year’s resolution a success.

Thanks in Advance!

-Chris Alter
Chris.Alter@AnchorPointTR.com

Time is money at Anchor Point. Finding YOUR way to make the most of your work day is extremely important and is vital in the recruiting field. Everyone has different tips and methods on how they can maximize their productivity at work through time management;

Here is my top 10 list of things that will help you be a more productive employee:

1) Plan Each Day the Night Before

Before you leave work every evening, make a To Do list for the next day. This will prevent things from  slipping your mind the next morning and also give you a jump start on taking care of these tasks in the AM.

2) Prioritize your Tasks

On your To Do list, number the items based on their importance. This will allow you to focus on items that are urgent and close to the dollar, before moving onto less important tasks than can be taken care of later. 

3) Keep a list and cross off tasks when done

Check items off these lists as you complete them. This will help you keep track your progress and also allow you to feel a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day by seeing everything that you have been able to complete.

4) Say NO to unnecessary tasks

Realize whether a task or project is necessary or not. Do not waste your time on things that are pointless or likely to go nowhere. Remember, Time is Money.

5) Don’t spend too much time on one set task/project

Spending too much time on a project will only get you burnt out on it early on in the work day. You can always revisit the project later in the day, but changing it up will allow you to refresh your mind and come back to the task with some fresh ideas and strategies later on.

6) Limit your distractions– Facebook, chat, texts, etc.

Shut-off any distractions that will allow you to take attention away from your task or project. Use your breaks throughout the day to check on these everyday must-haves, but use your precious work time for work only.

7) Keep a running time on tasks

Set a timer on your task and move on after the time is up. This will help you with # 5. iPads and/or iPhones are great for this and there are many free apps that are available to assist you.

8) Take a break when needed

Breaks are important, not only for exercise of the body but also for exercise of the mind. Take a few breaks during the day, whether it is getting out of the office or walking around the building. This will allow you to refresh your body and mind and get back to work and be productive rather than lethargic.

9) Evaluate how you’re spending your time

Use your own tips for Time Management and Productivity. Modify them every once in a while to find what works FOR YOU, and if something isn’t working, change it! Keeping notes on this will help you keep track of what makes you better!

10) Eat, Sleep, Exercise and Repeat

A healthy diet, the right amount of sleep and regular exercise are vital in making sure you stay healthy throughout the year. Getting sick does not compliment your commission structure, preventing any illness will keep you from getting behind on work and allow you to stay on top and continue your road to success!

“The way we communicate with others and with ourselves ultimately determines the quality of our lives”

 – ‘Anthony Robbins,’ Self help author and motivational speaker

We sometimes take for granted that communication is involved in everything we do on a daily basis. In addtion, Communication comes in many different forms and realizing your audience can make you that much more effective in your own communication. Communication is the backbone of any relationship whether personal or professional.

From a recruiting perspective, I can’t stress enough the importance of communication. The relationship you establish with a recruiter can prove to be great experience. It may land you in your dream job, get you that increased wage you have been looking for or help you get into that company that you may not have the opportunity to get into on your own. None of this is possible without excellent communication from both parties.

Once the relationship has been established and the screening process begins, communication will ultimately play the biggest factor in your pursuit of the desired position. Why you ask? We as recruiters understand that our clients are looking for more than just an excellent technical skill set. They are looking for the “total package”. Keep in mind that a resume is just an introduction to your professional experience, how you present yourself and communicate that experience will prove to be more important during the screening process. Without the ability to communicate your experience effectively, you may ultimately miss out on your dream position. We want to provide you with the best recruiting experience possible and in order to do this, Communication is KEY