Friday, November 29, 2019

How to Get Promoted Quickly Without Destroying Your Work-life Balance

How to Get Promoted Quickly Without Destroying Your Work-life Balance How to Get Promoted Quickly Without Destroying Your Work-life Balance Millennials tend to care more aboutwork-life balance than Generation X does, but its elend because millennials are short on ambition they just have a different kind of ambition.Resarch from Bentley University tells us that millennials actually want successful, high-paying careers. In fact, three-quarters of them want to strut their stuff in major corporations at some point.However, unlike Generation X, millennials dont want to sacrifice their work-life balance in the process of attaining their career goals. Combining corporate success and healthy work-life balance is a noble, but challenging aim especially when you consider how many people are competing for the same career success.That doesnt mean its impossible, though. Here are five tips to help you meet your goal of getting promoted quickly while keeping your work-life balance intact1. Ge t a MentorWhen you are young, capable, and raring to go, the last thing you think you need is a mentor. What can a boomer or Gen. X-er tell you about technology and social media that you dont already know?However,older, more established professionals in your field can bring three important things your way connections, recommendations, and wisdom. It should come as no surprise thatemployees with mentors are promoted five times more often than those who dont have mentors. Getting a mentor is agreat wayto speed up your career development and increase your network of contacts without pulling 60+ hour weeks.2. Take on Challenging Projects That Stretch YouWhen youre just starting out, you should be careful not to fall into the presenteeism trap. Dont spend extra hours in the office every night grinding out every task that comes your way. This brute-force strategy will not only destroy whatever aspirations you had of work-life balance, but it canalso actively damage your career. Working ex cessively long hours can actually lead to a drop in your productivity which is not very likely to impress the boss.Of course, youll need to demonstrate that you have a good work ethic, but the key is to choose your projects well. Dont take on every single task just the ones that will challenge you and push you outside of your comfort zone. Employees who are prepared to stretch themselves, risk failure, and learn lessons while maintaining a positive outlook are considered fast-track promotion material.3. BeAdaptableResearch from Korn Ferry shows that the higher you climb on the corporate ladder, the more ambiguous, unpredictable, and volatile your job becomes. So, if you want to be seen as promotion-ready material, youll need to demonstrate that you are comfortable with sudden change and uncertainty.You can be the hardest worker in the office, but if you struggle with change, uncertainty, and ambiguity, then you may never be destined for the fast track. If you can position yourself as an agile andhighly adaptable person who can remain effective in the face ofcrises and setbacks, youll do a lot to raise your profile with management.4. Join the Management TroupeSkill and attitude are important factors in getting promoted, but so are connections and relationships Research shows that candidates who are recommended forjobs are many times more likely to get interviewed and appointed than those who arent referred.So, one of the most powerful career advancement hacks is to put it bluntly brown-nosing. Socialize with your boss and other influential leaders as often as you can. Ingratiate yourself into their group, and then show them you are a dependable worker. Then, youll have a much better chance of scoring a much-needed reference from an influential source.Whats great about all unterstellung career advancement hacks is that they depend on guile, tact, and strategic decisions not 60+ hour weeks in the office. You dont have to sell your soul to find career success you just need to be smart about it.

Sunday, November 24, 2019

The top 10 most environmentally friendly companies in the U.S

The top 10 most environmentally friendly companies in the U.SThe top 10 most environmentally friendly companies in the U.SThe world is rapidly running out of resurces, global emissions are reaching record levels and the last 4 years were the hottest on record. Businesses are a big contributor to our environmental problems but many American companies are now taking responsibility and becoming mora and more sustainable. Here are the top 10 most environmentally companies in the U.S. right now.Follow Ladders on FlipboardFollow Ladders magazines on Flipboard covering Happiness, Productivity, Job Satisfaction, Neuroscience, and more1. Aptive EnvironmentalRanking in first distribution policy isAptive Environmental a leader in the pest control industry. This company ranks number one on our list because it has a seriously impressive environmental friendliness score of 4.80 on our site This was well-earned byAptive Environmentalas providing customers with progressive pest control solutions tha t reduce potential health risks to humans and the environment, is at the core of what they do. Aptives firm commitment to the environment separates them from the competition. Whats more, employees love working here, as its work that doesnt feel like workat a great company, that really cares about their employeesand is perfect for anyone self-motivated who is looking for personal growth2. Rapid Response Monitoring Services, Inc.This New York-based security monitoring company offers electronic monitoring services with centers located in Corona, CA (Rapid Response West) and at its headquarters facility in Syracuse, NY (Rapid Response East).Rapid Response Monitoring Services, Inc.ranks second in this list as it has an environmental friendliness score of 4.63 on our site. Employees have a lot of great things to say about working here including, that its anexcellent employerwith agreat office and atmosphere andamazing opportunities.It also ranked in ourtop 10 most supportive companies to work for.3. Turner Construction CompanyThis international construction services company, which operates all over the US, ranks number 3 in our list with an environmental friendliness score of 4.58 The company has committed to becoming a green builder which means that theTurner Construction Companyis committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption of their on-site construction operations by 50 percent by 2030. Former employees say the atmosphere was always fun and relaxed but also challenging enough to make you strive for perfection, everyone on site was friendly and helpful andthe people make the company.If you work in construction, this company could be a great fit for you4. Washington University School of MedicineWashington University School of Medicineis among the top medical schools in the United States and has an environmentally friendly score of 4.53 on our site. Its also made a commitment to the environment by incorporating sustainability as part of the c ommunity culture through their daily activities, programming, employee empowerment, and community outreach. They are implementing green building and landscaping projects, putting together a Sustainable Action Team and holding a weekly Farmers Market. Employees also have a lot to say about working here, including that they have a great work environment and flexible hours,hands-on training, great pay and benefits along with a very supportive team and good management.5. Gundersen Lutheran Health SystemGundersen Health Systemis a non-profit health network operating in 19 counties across three Midwest states. Gundersen which is headquartered in La Crosse, Wisconsin, where it is, in fact, its countys largest employerbegan making steps towards carbon neutrality in 2008. By October 2014, it became the first U.S. health system toattain energy independenceby producing more energy than it consumed, at least some of the time. Employees praise the company for its uplifting and encouraging work e nvironment, the fact that they encourage and listen to feedbackand supports employees ideas for growth, whilst encouraging the protection of the environment.Sounds like a dream employer, right?6. Universal Orlando ResortUniversal Orlando Resortis elend just a cool place to visit in Florida, its also making waves in terms of its commitment to protecting the environment and because of this it has an impressive score of 4.53 on our site. The resort is working hard to mimimise its environmental footprint by committing to conservation, education, and recycling.On-site they offer guests a ChargePoint electric vehicle charger to power their cars, all four hotels are certified members of theFlorida Green Lodging Program, and all of the resorts vehicles are powered by biodiesel, a cleaner-burning alternative to gas. So, if youre looking for a fun and green place to work,Universal Orlando Resort, could be the place for you, especially if the reviews left my former employees are anything to go by.According to their reviews on our site,the company goes out of their way to ensure team member satisfaction, and they make daily changes,all employees are respected and treated fairly and the perks are great and the management is awesome.So you might want to go for more than just a holiday7. Kent State UniversityKent State Universityis a public research university based in, you guessed it, Kent Ohio, with a further seven regional campuses in Northeast Ohio and additional facilities both across the region and internationally. Former employees have given this universal an environmental friendliness score of 4.49 on our site, and its easy to see why.Kent State Universitytakes sustainability very seriously and has a number of enviable initiatives in place, including their pledge to only use Green Seal certified cleaning products, their introduction of single-stream recycling (which means everything can go into the same trash can), and the fact that they compete in the Recyclemania c ompetition, year in year out.Former employees say that its anopen, engaging and home-like place, where theyvehad a great experiencethanks to the companyscommitment to diversity and inclusion.What do you think? Could this be your next employer?8. REIREI or Recreational Equipment, Inc.is an American retail and outdoor recreation services corporation that sells sporting goods, camping gear, travel equipment, and clothing along with outdoor-oriented vacations and courses in 154 retail stores in 36 states. What makes this company different from others like it, though, is that it is built as a consumers cooperative.It has an environmental friendliness score of 4.45 for its efforts to reduce its impact on the environment with their Product Sustainability Standards which not only elevate practices within supply chains but also make it easier for members more sustainable products to choose from.Whats more, work is pretty easy and straight-forward, coworkers are super nice with similar intere sts and the work culture of inclusion is very strong, which we would agree makes REI a great company to work for.9. DefendersThis Indianapolis-based home security provider is a leader in the industry, protecting the homes of more than 2 million American familiesDefendersare also committed to reducing its environmental impact and have also been awarded an environmental friendliness score of 4.45.Former employees are very complimentary about their experience of working here, saying that its overall the best job I have ever had and that its a great companythatmakes employees successful personally and professionally So if youre passionate about home security and the environment, this could the perfect employer for you.10. FacebookLast but not least on our list isFacebook. The social media giant is also heavily committed to looking after the environment by reducing their greenhouse gas footprint by 75% and reaching 100% renewable energy in 2020. And, in response to America pulling out of the Paris Climate Agreement, Mark Zuckerberg had this to sayFor our part, weve committed that every new data center we build will be supported by 100 percent renewable energy. Stopping climate change is something we can only do as a global community, and we have to act together before its too late.And employees really rate working here, saying things like my boss is very understanding, and I work with an excellent team, and that there is a good work environment, understanding managers, and very good benefitswhich result in many positive experiences in the company.Its time to stop scrolling through your newsfeed and get that application inThis article first appeared on Kununu.You might also enjoyNew neuroscience reveals 4 rituals that will make you happyStrangers know your social class in the first seven words you say, study finds10 lessons from Benjamin Franklins daily schedule that will double your productivityThe worst mistakes you can make in an interview, according to 12 CEOs10 habits of mentally strong people

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Top Soft Skills for Workplace Success

Top Soft Skills for Workplace SuccessTop Soft Skills for Workplace SuccessWhen applying for a job, many people tend to emphasize their hard skills the specific knowledge and abilities required for a particular job. These are typically skills that can be clearly defined and measured. Its also necessary to highlight the most important soft skills you possess, to show why youre the best candidate for the job. When you are seeking employment or a promotion, your soft skills can be as important as the hard skills that are required to achieve success on the job. Soft skills are much more difficult to define and measure they are the interpersonal or people skills that help you to successfully interact with others in the workplace. Regardless of the job, you have to interact effectively with supervisors and people above and below you on the work chart, as well as others such as customers, vendors, patients, students, etc. Companies seek candidates with both types of skills when hiring for most positions. Thats because if you have a negative attitude, cant get along with others, dont communicate well, dont work well as part of a team, and arent able to think creatively and critically, it may not matter how well educated and competent you are. You need to have some tischset of people skills to get along in any job, not just those working directly with the public.Indeed.com, the leading job site, has shared the most valuable soft skills for job seekers and employees. Top Soft Skills Employers Want Here are the top seven most important soft skills to have for both interviewing and in the workplace, from Indeeds Director of Recruiting, Mike Steinerd Acting as a team player this means not only being cooperative, but also displaying strong leadership skills when necessary.Flexibility this is an extremely valuable asset to employees. Those who can adapt to any situation are dependable no matter whats thrown at them.Effective communication this is paramount to almost a ny job. Communication involves articulating oneself well, being a good listener and using appropriate body language.Problem-solving and resourcefulness no matter what your profession, these skills are critical when unexpected issues inevitably arise. Accepting feedback not only accepting feedback gracefully but also applying that feedback, fosters professional growth.Confidence is key that being said, its also important to always have the knowledge and skills to support self-assurance. By being confident and capable, your supervisors, employees, and clients will believe in what you are saying.Creative thinking being able to come up with unique solutions or alternatives is invaluable it drives innovation and increases efficiency. Employment Skills Differ by Job When you are seeking a leadership position, either as a manager, or a member of a team, you will want to highlight different assets than if you are seeking a technical position, for example. The soft skills you need to be an effective leader will include things like being able to delegate and offer constructive criticism. Information Technology positions require soft skills such as creativity and the ability to present ideas and solutions to individuals as well as groups. Strong communications skills, both written and oral are an important asset in virtually any field, at every level. How to Let Employers Know the Skills You Have When youre writing resumes and deckblatt letters, its essential to reference the skills the employer is seeking in your job application materials. The same is true when youre interviewing. Review the job posting, and be prepared to give specific examples of the skills you have (both hard and soft) that are a match for the job requirements. Be sure to present your soft skills to the hiring manager during interviews and focus on keeping your skills top-notch on the job Show off your positive attitude and enthusiasm throughout the interview.Dont just say that you have t he skills the company needs prove it to themPrepare thoroughly for your interview, and have a few examples of instances when you used your soft skills effectively.Know enough about the position and the company to converse comfortably and knowledgeably with the interviewer. Actions can genuinely speak louder than words, especially in a competitive workplace.