The journey of job searching is a long and arduous process.  Receiving a job offer is an exciting moment. This is where all your hard work in finding the right opportunity will finally pay off. In this three-part blog we will discuss different ways of handling the job offer. Today we will discuss accepting an offer.

One of the most important aspects of accepting a job offer is being meticulous. As the candidate you must read through the job offer very carefully. Take some time to understand whether it is something you are willing to accept. If there is something you don’t understand or need clarification on take a moment and ask. The hiring manager or staffing consultant can give you more details and help you understand. It is better to understand all aspects before signing rather than be blindsided after the fact. With that being said, get another set of eyes to go over your offer. A significant other or a friend may pick up on things that you may not have seen while initially reading the offer.

Offer letters vary from company to company. There are main points that should be clear and stipulated. They are as follows:

• Duties and Responsibilities
• Compensation and Benefits
• Probationary Period
• Work Schedule/Place of work
• Termination

These points should be clear and straight forward. The duties and responsibilities should state exactly what your job entails. It should also be what was described to you during the interview process. Compensation and benefits should be what you were expecting give or take. Companies will include more information on their own policies and how they operate. Just ensure that everything you are signing off on is exactly what you expected. Before signing off make sure the offer is signed off by the hiring authority at the company. This way you avoid running into potential issues that could come up.

Getting a job offer is very exciting! But due diligence will help ensure you are accepting the offer you wanted. Next time we will discuss how to graciously reject a job offer.

Invest in your career and learn something new this fall! Back to School Career Planning Advice.

It is Back to School time! If you have kids you are likely paying attention to the Back to School ad campaigns. It is a busy time. Whether you are picking up school supplies and new shoes or furnishing an apartment for your college aged student, your time and attention is focused on setting up your student for a successful year of learning. But when was the last time you put your time and attention towards your own skill development?

Learning is a life long process. Effective career management involves continually learning and developing your skills. You need to find your strengths and choose roles that capitalize on what you do best. Don’t ever think you know enough. There is always more to learn. Nowadays, technology is changing the way business operates and it is critical that you keep your skills and knowledge up to date. So where do you start?

• set a goal to read for 2 hours each week
• find free blogs or training videos on the topic that you wish to learn more about
• work with a mentor
• sign up for online training
• attend a workshop
• sign up for a class
• pursue a diploma or degree

Learning can occur in many different settings and does not have to be in a classroom. You may be interested in developing new skills for your career or you may wish to pursue a special interest. There are many ways to invest in yourself and you will find a lot of on-line choices that are free.

Not everyone feels the need to use a recruiter when looking for a job or making a career change. However there are many advantages to using expert help.

When unemployed and searching for a new career opportunity, we recommend that you use all the means available: job boards, friends, your professional network, as well as a recruiter.

What if you are currently employed and considering a career change? In this case, a recruiter’s services are a must!

Here are some of the benefits of working with a recruiter:

1. Confidential job searches

   When using a recruiter, you can search for new opportunities without worrying that your current employer will find out. There is no need to post your resume on a job board and have your boss find it.

2. Save time

   Searching for a new job takes a lot of time and effort. Working with a recruiter allows you to focus on you current job and saves you time chasing potential dead-ends.

3. Career direction

   Recruiters will take the time to understand what is important to you in your next role, and then match you with the right job to achieve your career goals.

4. Resume advice

   Many professionals find it difficult to articulate their skills and experience on paper and communicate the advantage of hiring them. An experienced recruiter can help polish your resume so it stands out amongst your peers.

5. Interview guidance

   Recruiters are in tune with what their client company is looking for and understand the interview process. This valuable information can help you to successfully handle the interview.

6. Access to the decision makers

   Recruiters work closely with their clients and have the ability to fast-track and put it in front of the right people.

7. Access to private opportunities

   Some opportunities are never posted on the public boards. A company may choose to keep the information “quiet” for a number of reasons and will use recruiters to fill these positions.

Working with a recruiter can be a very rewarding experience. Give us a try:

• See current opportunities at Fusion Careers
• Submit your resume

Are you satisfied with your current career path? You can still benefit from knowing what’s going on in your industry.

Follow job market trends. Stay aware of your options, compensation packages, and updated expectations that companies have today. This can improve your current situation, or advance your career should you choose to move on in the future.

Industry news sources:

• Fusion Career Services – Career Planning Advice Blog
• We frequently post new jobs and industry insights on Fusion Career Services LinkedIn Company Page
• Corporate and industry websites
• Newspapers
• Word of mouth
• Keeping in touch with a recruiter (upload your resume and get into our talent network)

Have a question about the job trends in your industry? Get in touch with one of Fusion’s recruitment experts at contact(at)fusioncareer.com.

An exit interview is used to provide feedback on why employees are leaving, what they liked about their employment, and what areas of the company need improvement. If you have resigned from your job, your current employer will most likely want to conduct an exit interview. As with any interview, it is important to prepare. Here are some things to consider before, and during your exit interview.

Consider why You Are Leaving

This will be one of the main focuses during the exit interview. Think about what your new job offers that this one doesn’t. For example, it may be a step up in your career, offer more benefits, better opportunity to learn new skills, or more flexible work hours. Try not to focus on the arguments you’ve had with your boss or colleagues.  Figure out the real reason why you have accepted another position.

Remain Professional – Don’t Burn Bridges

No matter what you choose to discuss with your employer, whether it is negative or positive, it is important to remain professional. If you have had negative experiences at your job, it may be irresistible to use this interview to unload and air your frustrations. However, this will not do you any good. The time you were employed with them was when you should have raised your concerns.  Also, if you plan on using this employer as a reference, you don’t want to burn your bridges. If you do bring up negative issues, turn them into productive, constructive criticisms and do so tactfully and remain professional.  

Ask Questions

Think about any questions prior to your exit interview that you may have about ending your employment. When will you receive your final pay check? Will you need to train a new employee before you leave? If you have any questions after your employment ends who should you contact?

Leave on a Positive Note

Make a point to say how much you have learned while working there and that you will be able to use these experiences to further your career. Be positive, even if there have been some negative experiences in the past. Thank your employer for the opportunities you have been given, and be sure to mention the things you will miss.

The exit interview is a way for companies to get feedback on your experiences, and for them to take necessary actions based on what you say. Try to stay positive and professional and offer constructive criticism if needed without burning bridges.