Adapting Leadership Styles in the Sansdemic: Leading Multigenerational Teams

Leaders in modern workplaces face a distinct challenge: managing a multigenerational workforce. Companies commonly have four generations represented in their staff, including Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z. In some cases, members of the Silent Generation are also presented, bringing a fifth generation into the mix.

While multigenerational workforces aren’t inherently new, the differences between these generations can dramatically impact team dynamics. Additionally, they each have unique expectations in regard to how they’re led. As a result, adapting leadership styles is typically necessary to manage multigenerational teams.

Here’s a look at the unique characteristics and working styles of the various generations, as well as how leaders can adapt their leadership style to support multigenerational teams effectively.

Understanding Multigenerational Diversity

While every person is undeniably unique, each generation is broadly associated with specific characteristics, attitudes, and preferences, particularly when it comes to the workplace. The Silent Generation and Baby Boomers often have features in common. They favor hard work and are highly loyal. Additionally, they respect hierarchies and organizational structures while also preferring direct communication methods like face-to-face conversations.

Gen X workers are highly independent and exceptionally adaptable. They appreciate workplaces with a degree of flexibility and favor leaders who offer reasonable amounts of autonomy. Gen X also tends to be peer-oriented, and they favor direct communication styles but are comfortable with tech-based approaches.

Millennials are typically considered the first digital native generation, and they’re highly comfortable with technology. Often, they prefer collaborative approaches to work, which is a stark contrast to the independent nature of Gen X. Also, they may favor digital communication over in-person or over-the-phone alternatives and are highly purpose-driven.

Generation Z is also comprised of digital natives, with the preference for digital communications over alternatives being incredibly strong. Social responsibility is a high priority for professionals in this generation, and they favor diverse, inclusive environments that provide room for personal development.

Adapting Leadership Styles to Support Multigenerational Teams

When leading multigenerational teams, leaders encounter specific challenges. Preferred communication methods can differ, making information sharing difficult. Additionally, generational differences when it comes to commitment and work ethic can cause conflict, and preferences regarding how they’re led can lead to difficulties.

In order to succeed, leaders need flexible communication styles. A variety of channels need to be available, ensuring some solutions align with the preferences of each generation. However, it’s wise to create standardized routes for specific types of information sharing, centralizing relevant details to make them broadly accessible.

Leaders must also adjust how they provide direction or information to various team members. Gen X, Baby Boomers, and Silent Generation members are often comfortable with a degree of bluntness as long as the information they require is provided. Younger generations often need a coaching-style mentality instead, as well as opportunities for dialog to make the process feel more collaborative and create an environment where asking questions feels like an option.

Ultimately, leaders need to consider the unique needs of their team members and adjust their leadership style to align it as required, all while outlining specific standards or expectations to make sure that information flows freely. That ensures all employees get what they need while supporting seamless collaboration, resulting in better outcomes.

Contact PrideStaff Bend Today

If you’d like to learn more or want to partner with a recruitment agency to fill vacant positions efficiently, PrideStaff Bend wants to hear from you. Contact us to learn more about our services today.

Simple Steps To Build a More Resilient Team

In life and in business, bad things happen. It’s inevitable that there will be setbacks and speed bumps along the way. The secret to getting past them is to be resilient: develop the ability to deal with challenges, adapt accordingly, learn from them, and move on to not just survive, but thrive. As a business leader, with a few tips, you can develop resiliency in yourself and in your team – and the end results will be better for everyone involved.

It’s All About Mindset

Resilient people – and teams – are psychologically flexible. This means that rather than avoiding difficult emotions, they accept them and as a result, are better able to shift perspectives and move faster into positive action. Psychological flexibility helps you experience discomfort or difficulty without being overwhelmed.

  • Resilient teams focus on what they can control, rather than getting stuck on circumstances or developments they can’t change. Such teams are characterized by candor, as they continually dialogue and speak the truth to each other, as well as resourcefulness, compassion, empathy, and humility.
  • Strong interpersonal relationships are critical to resilient teams. Empathy replaces blame and individualism, as people care for one another even when things don’t go their way. Team members also know how and when to ask for help, rather than pretending they alone have all the answers.
  • Additional traits shared by resilient people and teams are adaptability, purpose and creativity. They are defined by an unwavering acceptance of reality, a sense that their work is meaningful, and a strong ability to improvise when needed.

Steps to Team Resiliency

To build a resilient team, start by developing individual resiliency skills. Focus on fostering emotional intelligence and innovative thinking. Areas to zero in on include:

  • The ability to empathize: Contrary to what some may think, empathy can be taught and developed. It’s critical to spend time cultivating personal relationships with and between leaders and team members and keeping them equipped with the necessary tools to handle difficult situations.
  • Reducing bias: Take whatever steps are necessary to continue addressing issues related to conscious or unconscious bias in your workplace. Guard against it in your hiring processes, your policies, and the day-to-day environment at your organization.
  • Maintaining a sense of humor: There’s a time and a place for it, of course, but levity, fun and laughter can go a long way toward strengthening team ties. To err is human and in doing so, if you can laugh at yourself, you’ll be fine. It’s a sign of team resiliency and maturity.
  • Building communication skills: With challenges come the potential for stress and conflict. Teams made up of individuals with strong communication skills are better equipped to work through confrontation and other difficult situations.

The workforce development experts at PrideStaff Modesto are ready to partner with you to build, strengthen and continuously improve your team and business, positioning you for resiliency and ongoing competitive success. Reach out to us today to learn more.

How To Cultivate and Foster a Leadership Mentality Among Your Workforce

Your team is composed of a truly great group of people. They work hard and excel at their jobs, but you’re hoping to help them become better leaders.

This is something you know they’re capable of — even if they haven’t realized it yet. Sometimes people just need a little extra push to develop a leadership mentality.

As the boss, you’re committed to this cause. Here’s some advice to help you create a culture of leadership development.

Recognize Great Work

No one wants to feel undervalued. When your employees go above and beyond, make it clear  you noticed and appreciate their contributions. This is important, because it builds morale. Engaged employees truly care about the company and want to do their part to lead the company to ongoing success.

Prioritize Learning

Knowledge is power. Investing in your team is an all-around win, as it builds confidence, makes employees feel valued and provides them with the skills needed to take your company to the next level. Since leadership skills don’t come naturally to everyone, you can even offer courses, workshops and coaching to help people develop these abilities.

Don’t Micromanage

People become invested in a company when they feel a sense of ownership. However, it’s hard to achieve this if they’re not allowed to do anything without management looking over their shoulder. Letting go can be hard, but if you don’t give employees the freedom to do things their own way, they won’t care enough to want to lead.

Make It Okay to Fail

Becoming a leader isn’t about being perfect at everything. In fact, the best leaders know failure is always a learning experience. Creating a culture where trying and failing is just part of the path to success is a must. This will help employees become more engaged, because they won’t be afraid to try something new. Leadership is all about breaking the mold, and this allows people to be comfortable doing so.

Find Future Leaders

Searching for candidates with a strong leadership mentality? PrideStaff Las Vegas wants to help you find the perfect fit. Contact us today to get started!

From Layoff to Success: Rebounding in the Las Vegas Job Market

Getting laid off doesn’t feel great. Whether you knew it was coming or were taken by surprise, being phased out of your job wasn’t part of your plan.

Right now, you’re unemployed — but you’re not going to let that define you. You’re ready to get back to work in Las Vegas, and you’re committed to rebounding stronger than ever. Here’s five tips to help make this happen.

Reassess Your Career

Some things are better left in the past. It’s possible the job you had wasn’t the best fit. Think long and hard about whether or not you felt fulfilled in the role.

If you did, that’s great. You can feel confident that pursuing the same type of job is the best idea. However, don’t be afraid to change course if you realize the job wasn’t actually the best fit. Las Vegas is filled with opportunities, making it an amazing place for a fresh start.

Update Your Skills

You’re back on the job market, so you need to be competitive. Position yourself as a top candidate by ensuring your most relevant skills are up to date. This might involve taking an online course, volunteering in a role similar to one you’d like or even seeking out an internship.

Maintain a Positive Attitude

No one wants to get laid off — especially if it was unexpected. It’s easy to allow this to make you bitter and upset, but that won’t get you anywhere. Employers don’t want to hire someone with a bad attitude, so try to view the layoff as an opportunity. In fact, it might end up being one of the best things that’s ever happened to you.

Alert Your Network

Who you know can help you get hired. Now that you’re a free agent, let your network know you’re interested in new opportunities. Las Vegas is a big city, meaning there’s a good chance someone in your network will have a lead you can explore. People enjoy helping contacts they know and trust, so don’t underestimate the power of your contact list.

Work With a Staffing Firm

Las Vegas recruiters connect talented candidates with top local employers every day. Their services are completely free to job seekers, so take advantage of this opportunity to get professional help with your search. They’ll work with you to update your resume, prepare you for interviews and use their contacts to help you find the perfect fit.

Make Your Comeback

Getting laid off was tough, but it’s time to start a new chapter. PrideStaff Las Vegas is here to help you find a new job that makes you happier than ever. Contact us today to find out what we can do for you!

Ready to Move on from Your Job? Resign the Right Way So You Don’t Burn Bridges

Leaving a job can be complicated, even if it’s one you don’t love. You might be tempted to quit and walk away. However, you don’t want to burn bridges, so handle the situation with care. Here’s how to resign properly so you keep relationships intact and can move on with a clean slate.

Meet with your boss.

Schedule a private meeting with your boss. Be prepared for questions from them about why you’re leaving. If you have a good relationship, ask to use them as a reference down the line. If you don’t, keep the conversation professional. Thank them for their guidance and support, and provide them with a formal resignation letter.

Be honest.

During this conversation, be straightforward and honest. When they ask why you’re leaving, be clear that you have goals that no longer align with the company. Be specific, such as if you’re ready for a promotion, but there aren’t opportunities for upward mobility within the company.

Tell your colleagues.

After your boss is notified, let your co-workers know. Offer to help them with the transition and go the extra mile to make the process as easy as possible, leaving behind a positive impression. You never know when you might cross paths again.

Talk to HR.

Find out about your final paycheck and when to expect it, as well as benefits, like payment for unused sick or vacation time. Be open, ask questions when you need clarification, and make sure you understand your rights.

Move your retirement funds.

If you’re not retiring, find out how to transfer your account to your next employer. Talk to HR at your existing job and new job to understand how to facilitate this.

Ready to resign from your job but need help finding a new one?

Turn to the experts at PrideStaff. As a leading employment agency serving companies in the Phoenix, AZ, area, we can connect you with top jobs and rewarding new opportunities that are an excellent fit for you.

We can also help you with your resume, interview tips, and more, all so you land the job you want. If you’d like to start the process, contact us today or search our jobs now.

 

The Impact of Automation on the Job Market for Manufacturing and Production Roles

Technology can be beneficial for businesses to increase efficiency, but the rise of automation capabilities has the potential to change the realities of the workplace and job market. Manufacturing and production are among the industries where automation is becoming more commonplace, leaving workers in these areas wondering if and how they should prepare for their professional futures. Read on to learn more the impact of automation on the job market manufacturing and production roles.

 

Less Demand for Certain Tasks

There are particular aspects of manufacturing and production that are most likely to eventually become automated. Wide-scale automation is complicated and costly, so the most monotonous, predictable tasks are the ones that would be impacted first and foremost as companies start using the technology. Job duties that are more repetitive would be the most likely to be affected by automation and would be significantly less in demand by employers. 

 

Growth in Related Jobs

While many jobs may be at risk of eventual automation, the shift is also likely to create additional jobs. Automation, especially for manufacturing and production roles, cannot function on its own – it will require professionals who can understand, implement, and troubleshoot the technology. The job market for manufacturing and production will likely have growth in demand for roles that are related to engineering, maintenance, or other technology-focused positions that would oversee and capitalize on automation and machine learning. This may require additional training to gain the skills to be marketable for the future. 

 

Focus on Relevant Soft Skills 

Hiring managers typically consider soft skills, or the personal strengths that make for a valuable employee, as a way to differentiate between candidates with similar technical expertise. With the impending growth of automation, hiring managers in manufacturing and production will be searching for employees that have the soft skills that will make them more successful to work in the changing landscape, such as adaptability to change, problem-solving, and comfort with technology. 

 

Explore New Opportunities in Akron, OH

Get help with your job search by teaming up with PrideStaff Akron. Our team of recruiting experts can help you find new opportunities that are the best fit for your qualifications and professional goals. Search our available jobs to learn more.  

 

How Improving Job Postings Can Help With Hiring in the Sansdemic

The current sansdemic has created hiring challenges in nearly every industry. Employers are discovering that there simply isn’t enough talent to go around, leading to recruitment and retention difficulties. As a result, companies need to go the extra mile when attracting talent. Otherwise, employers may fail to separate themselves from competitors and secure the applicants they need.

Here’s a look at how improving job postings can boost hiring in the sansdemic, as well as how to improve job postings to attract more talent.

During a sansdemic, it’s effectively a candidates’ market. Job seekers have options when looking for new opportunities. In turn, they become far more discerning about the openings they choose to apply for and are quick to bypass positions when the job posting fails to meet their expectations.

In many cases, the job postings of the recent past weren’t designed with candidate needs and preferences in mind. Instead, companies simply outlined the requirements and responsibilities associated with the role and expected job seekers to try and impress them with their applications. In the current landscape, that doesn’t work. If an organization doesn’t present a compelling employer value proposition, then candidates move on to other openings.

By improving job postings, employers can ensure that top talent doesn’t overlook their employment opportunities. Essentially, the vacancy announcements will be designed as enticingly as possible, ensuring candidates know what they have to gain by pursuing the position. In turn, it’s far easier to secure applicants, making candidates more accessible during the sansdemic.

How to Improve Job Postings to Attract Talent During the Sansdemic:

Create Clear, Concise Job Descriptions

When describing the position, make sure the description is clear and concise. Be precise about the responsibilities and qualifications associated with the role, using bullet points to make the content readable. Keep must-have skills to a minimum, focusing solely on those that are necessary on day one. Outline any relevant expectations as well.

Embrace Pay Transparency

Pay transparency benefits candidates and employers alike. For job seekers, it allows them to determine whether the presented compensation meets their expectations, making it easier for them to find suitable openings. For employers, it means that those who apply are likely comfortable with the presented range, increasing the odds that a selected candidate will accept a job offer when one is presented.

Showcase Company Culture and Values

Today, candidates prefer opportunities with companies with missions and values that align with their perspectives and preferences. Additionally, they favor environments that provide them with the needed level of support. By showcasing your company’s culture and values, it’s far easier for candidates to determine if there’s alignment. As a result, you’ll receive more applicants, and those who apply are typically highly likely to match your company’s environment.

Use Data-Driven Keywords and SEO Best Practices

Data-driven keywords and search engine optimization (SEO) best practices increase the visibility of your job openings. Candidates typically conduct searches based on keywords that align with their expertise. By including those terms in your descriptions, job seekers will find your job ads with greater ease, leading to more qualified applicants.

Contact PrideStaff Bend Today

Ultimately, the tips above can help companies improve their job postings to boost hiring success during a sansdemic. If you’d like to learn more about how your organization can secure top talent efficiently, PrideStaff Bend wants to hear from you. Contact us to learn more about our services today.

Ask These Questions to Ensure a Core Value Alignment with Potential Employees

As a hiring manager, one of the last things you want is to bring a new employee on board only to have them resign, voluntarily or otherwise, a short time later.

  • The U.S. Department of Labor has estimated the cost of a bad hire at at least 30 percent of an individual’s first-year expected earnings. In the case of an employee earning $50,000, for example, this amount would be $15,000 or more.

While there’s never a 100 percent guarantee that a new employee will work out for the long run, hiring people who are the right fit for your company culture is a must. This means confirming during your interviews that a candidate’s core values are in perfect sync with those of your organization.

Ask behavioral and situational questions.

Core values reflect a company’s mission, beliefs and objectives. They define how people collaborate and are the basis of a harmonious work environment. Candidates’ responses to questions like these will help you confirm that they embody the values you’re looking for as your position your business for ongoing success:

  • Describe a time when you faced an ethical dilemma at work. How did you handle it?

Look for a candidate to describe a situation when they had to do the right thing, even if it was hard. You’re gauging for honesty, integrity, and solid moral standards – a person being willing to do what’s right, without exception. There’s no gray area when it comes to good work ethics.

  • Have you ever had to collaborate with a difficult coworker? What was your approach?

It’s important to make sure team members can get along with others and maintain a peaceful, productive environment. Occasionally, this may mean managing tension or interpersonal conflict.

  • Tell us about an instance where you solved a problem in a non-traditional way.

This is an excellent question for defining the extent of a person’s creativity and innovation. It also allows you to see if they think progressively and can adapt to different situations and challenges.

Hint: With these and all behavioral and situational questions, look for specific, concrete examples that paint a clear picture of a candidate’s unique skills and accomplishments. Raise a red flag if they can’t support their arguments with clear facts and details. Other warning signs to be aware of include:

  • Inflexibility: Again, this comes back to company core values. If a candidate expresses an opinion that clashes with any or all of those values, steer clear of taking things any further with them.
  • Arrogance: This may come across as negativity towards criticism or demonstrating an overly bossy attitude. This behavior generally indicates that a person prioritizes their own values over those of others. In the long run, they will likely add toxicity to your workplace and may not even comply with your company policies.

For more insight into perfecting your hiring strategy, including your watertight interview process, contact PrideStaff Modesto today.

Debunking 3 Common Myths About Staffing Firms in Las Vegas

You’ve never worked with a staffing firm. To be honest, you could use a little help with hiring, but you’re not really sure if partnering with a Las Vegas recruiter is the right move.

Working with a staffing agency might not be the best choice, but it’s also possible your perception of this type of partnership isn’t accurate. To help you learn more about it, PrideStaff Las Vegas debunked three common misconceptions about working with a local staffing firm.

Keep reading to find out find out if your perceptions were accurate or not.

Myth: Working With a Staffing Firm is Too Expensive

While it’s true that working with a recruiter isn’t free, it’s actually cheaper than you think.

First of all, you pay nothing until you hire a candidate referred by the staffing agency. This means your recruiter has to do the legwork and present you with a candidate you want to hire before they’re paid.

Beyond that, it’s important to consider the full cost of a new hire. Recruiting, interviewing, onboarding and training aren’t cheap. Plus, leaving a position open for an extended period of time is also costly, due to increased overtime expenses and lost business opportunities. You’ll also need to factor in the potential cost of a bad hire — especially if the person doing the hiring isn’t an expert in this area.

Therefore, when all costs are considered, it’s actually cheaper to work with a recruiter than to hire on your own.

Myth: Staffing Firms Only Place Temporary Workers

Think recruiters only fill temporary positions? Think again. Staffing firms connect clients with temporary, temp-to-hire and direct hire talent every day. Whether you need to fill an entry-level, mid-level or executive position, they’ll help you find the right fit.

Myth: There’s No Need to Hire a Recruiter When You Have an HR Team

In theory, it makes sense to believe you don’t need the help of a staffing firm when you have an in-house HR team. However, there’s a lot more to consider.

Your HR team has a lot more on their plates than just hiring. They’re tasked with responsibilities such as ensuring employees follow company rules, payroll, maintaining workplace culture, overseeing performance reviews, conducting exit interviews, managing wellness programs and updating company policies — just to name a few of their duties.

Sure, they might be able to handle hiring at regular pace, but this can be a lot when you need to hire several people at once or find specialized talent. Partnering with a staffing firm can ensure your HR team doesn’t get overwhelmed. Let them focus on keeping your team happy and functioning properly, while your staffing partner seeks new talent.

Delegate Your Hiring

Now that we’ve debunked several common myths about Las Vegas staffing firms, it’s time to give PrideStaff Las Vegas a try. Contact us today to discuss a partnership!

4 Tips for Retaining Top Performers

Hiring employees is expensive and requires a lot of effort. Yet, the work is far from over once you’ve built a solid team. You still need to retain your top performers. To help you do that, here are four tips for keeping your people happy and on the job.

Tip #1: Focus on the details.

The small things matter, and when employees feel overlooked or under-appreciated, it’s going to impact your retention rates. So thank them regularly, praise your people when they go the extra mile, offer flexible scheduling for those who don’t have to be on-site all the time, and create a healthy, happy workplace culture.

Tip #2: Meet with your team members.

Another important step toward retaining your star performers is to keep the lines of communication open. Make sure you’re touching base, at least weekly or monthly, to check about wins, challenges, concerns, and questions. This will make your employees feel more supported and improve their engagement and satisfaction on the job. It will also help you learn about problems before they escalate.

Tip #3: Invest in onboarding and training.

Don’t let new employees go it alone on the job. Make sure you have an effective onboarding and training process that welcomes them, pairs them with an experienced co-worker, provides training and education, and ensures they have the support and resources they need. Make sure your new hires feel good about their decision to join your team.

Tip #4: Promote from within.

When you have an internal promotions policy, you’re investing in your team. With training, development, and advancement opportunities, employees will look at their work as more than a job but as a career and an opportunity. This is key to keeping retention high and turnover low. So look for employees with growth and leadership potential and promote from within.

Need more help with your hiring and retention efforts?

Turn to PrideStaff. As a leading recruitment firm in the Phoenix, AZ, area, we can help you source and hire the right-fit candidates from the start for a wide range of openings. This goes a long way in improving retention.

In addition, we can help you develop an effective training and development program that gets new hires off to the best start possible. Contact us today to get started.