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    "result": {"data":{"posts":{"edges":[{"node":{"url":"utilizing-online-degrees-and-certifications-to-effectively-upskill-employees-and-promote-internally","title":"Utilizing Online Degrees and Certifications to Effectively Upskill Employees and Promote Internally","description":{"description":"The modern workplace is more competitive than ever. The innovation of SaaS (subscription software business tools) makes it so that every company has access to a highly refined and capable tech stack. It’s not enough to use data. Everyone uses data. It’s not enough to be agile. Agility is the standard."},"body":{"body":"The modern workplace is more competitive than ever. The innovation of SaaS (subscription software business tools) makes it so that every company has access to a highly refined and capable tech stack. It’s not enough to use data. Everyone uses data. It’s not enough to be agile. Agility is the standard.\n\nYou need employees with an up-to-the-minute understanding of their trade to stand out and succeed in a competitive marketplace. Outside hires are one way to attract [high-level leadership](https://onlinedegrees.rockhurst.edu/blog/organizational-leadership-careers). However, external recruitment comes at a cost. Not only is it expensive and time-consuming, but it can also be demoralizing to loyal employees who fear they may never get a shot at leadership. \n\nUpskilling programs are a great way to help your existing team members develop into leadership positions. In this article, we take a look at how online degrees and certifications can be used to upskill and promote internally. \n\n### Why Upskilling Matters?\n\nStudies consistently show that internal promotions benefit companies more than outside hires. There are, of course, scenarios where it does make sense to bring someone in from the outside. If a vacancy emerges for which there is no easy or natural internal replacement, you do need to start headhunting.\n\nHowever, you should also use this as an opportunity to ask yourself a difficult question: Are we doing everything we can to prepare our current employees for bigger and better opportunities?\n\nIf not, you may be missing out on these key benefits:\n•\tUpskilled employees are more capable: The most obvious benefit to initiating upskilling opportunities is that it teaches your staff new things. The world of business changes rapidly. Data implementation and AI did not exist in nearly the same capacity ten years ago as they do now. If your staff is several years removed from their last major professional development opportunity, they simply aren’t as prepared for the responsibilities of their job as they otherwise could be. \n•\tUpskilling opportunities entice new hires: Naturally, you will need to hire new people sometimes, even when you have a great promotions pipeline. When it comes time to make a job listing, “professional development opportunities,” will be a big boon for the exact type of candidate you most likely want to attract. Smart, driven, hardworking. They will appreciate the fact that they can expect free or affordable ways to improve on the job in a supportive professional environment. \n•\tUpskilling improves employee satisfaction: Finally, employees simply like the opportunity to work in an environment that fosters the conditions necessary for promotions. Upskilling opportunities send a clear message. Work hard, and there are opportunities waiting for you. \n\nNow you understand why upkilling and additional certification opportunities are important. How can you implement them in your workplace to improve morale and attract new talent? Below, we take a look at a few ways to use online training opportunities to effectively upskill employees. \n\n### Consider the Timeline\n\nOnline upskilling opportunities can range significantly in terms of time requirements. Some involve full-time participation, no different than what would be required to get a degree at a brick-and-mortar university. \n\nOthers can be completed in months, weeks, or even days. Choose the path that makes the most sense to you. There is nothing wrong with big upskilling programs. However, if you are interested in implementing a demanding training, you should be prepared to modify your expectations in terms of what other responsibilities the employee should be attending to. It is important that upskilling opportunities not be seen as stressful or overly cumbersome. \n\n### Provide the Funds\n\nMost upskilling opportunities do not cost as much as a traditional college degree. Depending on the length of the program costs could vary considerably from several hundred to several thousand dollars per person. \n\nThis is, undeniably, an investment. To ensure participation, you will, of course, need to supply the funds. For many years, businesses have financially supported team members who want to develop their skills. This is done for several reasons. \n•\tIt encourages participation.\n•\tIt entices future hires.\n•\tIt (could) save you money in the long run.\n\nTo that last point, it’s important to consider the value your team members bring to the table. Ideally, you will have a concrete idea of the tangible benefits each training will produce. Participation will still cost money, but the expense becomes more tolerable when there is a return on investment on the horizon. \n\n### Do It Sensibly\n\nIt is important to fully commit to any upskilling initiative. Many businesses already have poorly used programs in which the company pays for some or all of the employees' educational endeavors. These opportunities are great for those who take advantage of them, but they ultimately appeal only to a select few. \n\nThe idea is to implement a program that improves and motivates everyone on the staff. Make upskilling opportunities built into the standard working day. \n\nOtherwise motivated employees may decline opportunities that take them from their families on nights or weekends. Putting these training opportunities into the core business schedule makes them accessible and demonstrates how seriously your business takes them. \n\nAlso, make a point of highlighting programs that emphasize the skills that are most important to you. Think about your skill gaps. What areas do you need to brush up on? This is fertile territory when it comes to deciding on upskilling opportunities and establishing a pipeline for internal promotions. \n\n### Conclusion\n\n[Remote education](https://www.augusta.edu/online/blog/remote-learning-resources) makes upskilling easier than ever. Instead of sending people to a seminar for the weekend, you can cut costs and access the same high-quality training remotely. While vetting programs, do be careful to ensure that the curriculums you are interested in have been fully certified.\n\nCredentials earned online carry as much weight as those earned at a brick-and-mortar university. However, you do have to do your due diligence. Internet scams can befall even the most well-established of companies (see, Marriott) so do a little digging before making your selection. \n\nYour efforts will be well rewarded in the form of improved productivity and employee morale. \n"},"publishedOn":"2024-06-05T05:00+02:00"}},{"node":{"url":"beyond-the-resume-how-skills-tests-can-guarantee-your-ideal-software-developer","title":"Beyond the Resume: How Skills Tests Can Guarantee Your Ideal Software Developer","description":{"description":"Finding the perfect software developer for your team can feel like searching for a unicorn. Resumes pile up, interviews take time, and all too often, the candidate who looked great on paper just doesn't translate to real-world coding skills. But what if there was a way to move beyond resumes and identify candidates with the exact abilities you need? Enter skills tests: a powerful tool to take the guesswork out of hiring and guarantee you recruit software developers that really have the necessary skills."},"body":{"body":"Finding the perfect software developer for your team can feel like searching for a unicorn. Resumes pile up, interviews take time, and all too often, the candidate who looked great on paper just doesn't translate to real-world coding skills. But what if there was a way to move beyond resumes and identify candidates with the exact abilities you need? Enter skills tests: a powerful tool to take the guesswork out of hiring and guarantee you [recruit software developers](https://www.emergentstaffing.net/) that really have the necessary skills.\n\n### The Shortcomings of Resumes\n\nLet's face it, resumes can be a bit of a gamble. They're often inflated with skills or experience that may not be entirely accurate. How can you be sure that someone who claims to be a \"Java expert\" can actually write clean, efficient code under pressure? Resumes also struggle to showcase problem-solving abilities – a crucial quality for any developer. Imagine this scenario: you interview a candidate whose resume boasts five years of experience with Python. They talk a good game, but when it comes to actually tackling a coding challenge, they falter. Resumes simply can't tell the whole story.\n\n### How Skills Tests Can Help\n\nSkills tests come in many forms, from live coding challenges to multiple-choice questions and take-home projects. They provide a platform for candidates to demonstrate their abilities in a controlled environment. This allows you to objectively evaluate their technical skills in specific programming languages, algorithms, and data structures. Perhaps even more importantly, skills tests reveal a candidate's problem-solving approach – how they think through a coding challenge, break down the problem, and ultimately arrive at a solution. This insight into their thought process is invaluable in determining if they're a good fit for your team and your coding style.\n\nFor example, let's say you're looking for a developer who can tackle complex back-end challenges. A well-designed skills test might involve a scenario where the candidate needs to design a scalable database or optimize an existing API. By observing how they approach the problem, you can assess their understanding of core back-end concepts and their ability to think critically under pressure.\n\n### Benefits of Using Skills Tests\n\nSo, how exactly can skills tests benefit your hiring process? First and foremost, they help you identify truly qualified candidates. By weeding out those who may have exaggerated their skills on a resume, you'll spend less time interviewing unqualified applicants and more time focusing on the best of the best. Imagine the time saved by eliminating candidates who can't even write basic code!\n\nSkills tests also allow you to make data-driven hiring decisions. Instead of relying solely on a subjective resume review, you'll have concrete evidence of a candidate's coding proficiency and problem-solving abilities. This objective data can help you avoid unconscious bias and ensure you're hiring the most qualified candidate for the job. Finally, skills tests have the potential to reveal a candidate's potential for future growth and learning. Seeing how they approach a challenge can give you valuable insights into their thought process and ability to adapt to new technologies. A candidate who struggles with basic concepts might not be a good fit for a senior developer role, but their approach to the test might reveal a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn – qualities that could be valuable in a junior developer.\n\n### Finding the Right Skills Test\n\nNot all skills tests are created equal. The key is to choose a test that aligns with the specific needs of your developer role. For example, if you're looking for a front-end developer skilled in building user interfaces, a test focusing on back-end database design wouldn't be very helpful. Look for a platform that offers a variety of skills tests tailored to different programming languages and development areas. Many platforms also allow you to customize the test to include specific questions or scenarios relevant to your project.\n\nIt's also important to establish clear evaluation criteria and time constraints for the test. This ensures fairness for all candidates and allows you to efficiently assess their skills. Finally, consider offering practice tests to ensure all candidates are comfortable with the testing environment. This can help level the playing field and reduce any anxieties that might hinder their performance.\n\n### Beyond Just Skills: The Big Picture\n\nWhile skills tests are a game-changer for identifying technical talent, it's important to remember they're just one piece of the hiring puzzle. Don't neglect the importance of cultural fit and soft skills. During the interview process, assess how well the candidate would integrate with your existing team and their communication style. Can they effectively explain their thought process? Are they collaborative and open to feedback? These qualities are just as important as technical prowess for building a successful development team.\n\n### Conclusion\n\nSkills tests offer a powerful way to move beyond resumes and identify software developers who possess the specific skills and problem-solving abilities you need. By incorporating skills tests into your hiring process, you'll gain valuable insights into a candidate's true coding proficiency and thought process. This allows you to make data-driven decisions and ultimately build a strong, successful software development team. So, ditch the resume gamble and embrace the power of skills tests – your ideal developer awaits!\n\nBut here's the thing: a successful skills test implementation requires a bit more than just throwing a test at candidates. Here are some additional tips to maximize the effectiveness of your skills assessments:\n\n●\tSet clear expectations: Communicate what the test entails and what skills it will assess. This transparency helps candidates prepare effectively and reduces test anxiety.\n●\tProvide feedback: Don't leave candidates hanging after the test. Offer constructive feedback, even if they weren't successful. This not only shows professionalism but can also help them improve for future opportunities.\n●\tCombine with other assessments: While skills tests are powerful, consider incorporating a technical interview or a take-home project to gain a more holistic view of the candidate's abilities.\n\nBy following these steps, skills tests can become a cornerstone of your hiring strategy, ensuring you find developers who are not only technically sound but also a great fit for your team culture. Remember, the goal isn't just to find someone who can code; it's about finding someone who can thrive within your organization and contribute to your long-term success. So, leverage the power of skills tests, but keep the human element in mind, and you'll be well on your way to building a dream development team."},"publishedOn":"2024-06-05T00:00+02:00"}},{"node":{"url":"how-soft-skills-contribute-to-success-in-healthcare-and-social-work-careers","title":"How Soft Skills Contribute to Success in Healthcare and Social Work Careers","description":{"description":"Healthcare workers train for years to develop the skills that allow them to do their jobs. In-depth knowledge is important, but what about soft skills? Communication. Empathy. Personality. These are the factors that determine how effectively a healthcare worker will be able to deal with and comfort their patients. \nThey are also harder to teach.\nIn this article, we take a sweeping look at the importance of soft skills in healthcare and social work. Read on to learn more about how basic elements of your personality may contribute to your success in these important careers. "},"body":{"body":"Healthcare workers train for years to develop the skills that allow them to do their jobs. In-depth knowledge is important, but what about soft skills? Communication. Empathy. Personality. These are the factors that determine how effectively a healthcare worker will be able to deal with and comfort \ntheir patients. \n\nThey are also harder to teach.\n\nIn this article, we take a sweeping look at the importance of soft skills [in healthcare](https://online.utulsa.edu/blog/mental-health-for-nurses/) and social work. Read on to learn more about how basic elements of your personality may contribute to your success in these important careers. \n\n### What Do Healthcare and Social Work Careers Have in Common?\n\nFirst, why are we lumping social work and healthcare into a common category? \n\nWhile these careers are distinct in terms of training and responsibilities, both put the people working these jobs in close contact with people in moments of great vulnerability. \n\nEducation and training may equip you with the skills you need to know how to hook a patient up to a vaccine or support someone who has just been released from prison. \n\nCan a textbook teach you how to show them empathy? How to say the right things to a family member who is struggling with their chronically ill loved one’s diagnosis? \n\nThe answer, in most cases, is no. Soft skills can be honed and developed, but they can’t be taught in the same way that other professional traits can be. \n\n### Defining Soft Skills\n\nSoft skills are defined simply as personal traits that allow you to work well with others. These include things like communication, time management, critical thinking, adaptability, teamwork, and interpersonal relationships. \n\nThese skills often bleed together. Rarely do we think actively about them as we go about our days. When we do think about soft skills, it’s often in the context of noticing that someone lacks them. People with well-developed soft skills adapt naturally to their circumstances. \n\nBelow, we will take a look at some concrete examples pertaining to healthcare and social work. \n\n### Soft Skills Improve Your Ability to Leverage Empathy\n\nEmphasis on the word “leverage.” Empathy is a soft skill in its own right, but it’s useless if you are ineffective at communicating or nurturing strong interpersonal relationships. Imagine a patient going through a lengthy \nrecovery process. \n\nThey are hospitalized and have been for weeks. It’s quite possible that they have still more weeks ahead of them. Studies show that this person’s mental state will have a significant impact on their probability of making a successful recovery. To that end, he’s in luck. \n\nThree days out of the week he is attended to by Maggie. Maggie is a nurse six years out of school. She’s just as talented from a medical perspective as anyone else working the floor, but it’s her personality that makes the biggest difference in Hypothetical Patient’s life. \n\nShe asks about his life back home. She makes him feel seen beyond his condition. Reminds him that he has a life beyond the hospital that he will be getting back to, one day, hopefully soon. \n\nThat type of care can produce a degree of optimism in patients—the importance of which is hard to quantify. When people feel good about a difficult process they have to go through—medical procedures, social work services— they tend to do better than those who have a bad attitude. \n\nNurses/social workers like Maggie make the people they are working with feel better about their experiences. \n\n### Soft Skills Heavily Influence Productivity\n\nWhen people talk about soft skills, it’s personality traits that come first and foremost to mind. They think about people like Maggie, who are just good at working with others. While personality is a big part of what makes soft skills effective, there are also soft skills that relate more directly to productivity. For example:\n\n•\t__Communication__: When a situation is urgent, you need to be able to communicate quickly and effectively. This comes up a lot in healthcare but can be relevant to social work as well. When someone is in crisis, there isn’t time for inefficiency. Information needs to be passed along clearly and as effectively as possible. \n\n•\t__Time Management__: Time management goes beyond managing not to procrastinate. It’s about how the person manages to juggle tasks in a way that is as efficient as possible. Can you organize and perform your responsibilities in a way that ensures everything gets done well and in as prompt a manner as possible? \n\n•\t__Teamwork__: Good teamwork requires a combination of hard and soft skills. You need to be able to perform your responsibilities well. You also need to be able to communicate effectively with your team and trust them to do their jobs. \n\nThese qualities combine to not only influence patient/caseload outcomes but also shape the overall efficiency of the entire workplace. Teams full of people with great soft skills perform better than those made up of people who lack them. \n\n### Can Soft Skills be Taught?\n\nContrary to common belief, soft skills can be developed. They just be taught in the same step-by-step way that you would learn other professional skills. \n\nThere are no manuals saying “Step 1. Smile as you enter the room. Step 2. Nod your head sympathetically as the patient speaks.”\n\nLearning soft skills is more about thinking actively about how you engage with others, and with your work-related responsibilities. Are you approaching your patients/case load with empathy? Do you communicate effectively? Manage your tasks well. \n\nInevitably, you will find as you consider these points, that there is room for improvement. It’s through the process of honing these skills that you will eventually improve upon them. For most people, this a lifelong process. \n\nYou don’t one day perfect your ability to work with a patient. Instead, you learn through time how to do it a little bit better. That adaptability and willingness to improve is, in and of itself, a soft skill.\n\n### Conclusion\n\nIf you think you have a natural ability to work well with others, you may be well-suited for a career in social work or healthcare. Keep in mind that there are also jobs that blend these responsibilities. Social workers are often [paired with people who are experiencing mental health challenges](https://onlinelearning.csuohio.edu/blog/everything-you-need-know-about-mental-health-social-workers), or other health issues. \n\nDoctors and nurses, meanwhile, come into contact with people from all walks of life. Many of them are eligible for, or actively receiving social work services. Ultimately, both professions hinge on the ability to recognize and meet people’s complete needs at moments of great vulnerability. If that’s somethin\n"},"publishedOn":"2024-05-25T00:00+02:00"}},{"node":{"url":"using-remote-learning-as-a-tool-for-employee-upskilling","title":"Using Remote Learning as a Tool for Employee Upskilling","description":{"description":"Over the past decade, the practice of upskilling has been adopted by a wide variety of employers across industries. In essence, this is the practice of helping employees gain new skills to become better, more valuable professionals. \n\nIn addition to this innovation in the professional sphere, remote learning has been steadily increasing in the realm of education. As an employer, you have the opportunity to take advantage of these two developments to help your employees thrive. \n\nHere’s how to use remote learning as a tool for employee upskilling. "},"body":{"body":"Over the past decade, the practice of upskilling has been adopted by a wide variety of employers across industries. In essence, this is the practice of helping employees gain new skills to become better, more valuable professionals. \n\nIn addition to this innovation in the professional sphere, remote learning has been steadily increasing in the realm of education. As an employer, you have the opportunity to take advantage of these two developments to help your employees thrive. \n\nHere’s how to use remote learning as a tool for employee upskilling. \n\n### Taking Advantage of Remote Learning Resources\n\n[Remote learning resources](https://www.augusta.edu/online/blog/remote-learning-resources) can come in a wide variety of useful and accessible forms. From online platforms to specialized software, these different resources can be an amazing tool for you as an employer regardless of your industry. \n\nIt comes as no surprise that a survey conducted by [Deloitte](https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/telecommunications/connectivity-mobile-trends-survey/2023/adoption-of-technology-integration-in-education.html) found that more than half of remote students in 2023 stated they would like to continue with remote education. With this in mind, it makes sense that you should capitalize on this amazing new and accessible form of learning as an employer. \n\nIf your employees work in person, you can provide them with elearning tools and resources to use while at the office. Conversely, if your employees work remotely, you can also easily provide employees with access to these amazing tools. \n\nWhat makes remote learning so perfect for upskilling is this form of education’s easily accessible nature. As such, no matter what type of company you operate, remote learning resources are amazing for upskilling. \n\n### How to Approach Upskilling as a Practice\n\nAs has been noted, upskilling is an amazing and increasingly popular practice that allows you to help your employees gain new skills. In some cases, these skills are closely related to an employee’s job description and industry. In other cases, the skills that are learned are completely different and meant to foster innovation. \n\nWhether your company deals with [engineering](https://educatingengineers.com/blog/engineering-scholarships-the-ultimate-guide-for-college-students/) or coding, using this practice can help your company thrive in a number of compelling ways. \n\nFor starters, upskilling will allow you to cultivate a more talented staff. In turn, this will likely make your company more efficient, productive, and capable. Ultimately, this will result in your organization achieving higher states of success with less effort. \n\nHow you approach upskilling for your employees will depend on a variety of factors that you will need to take some time to determine.\n\nSome questions you should ask yourself before beginning an upskilling program include:\n\n●\tWhat do I want to achieve from providing my employees with upskilling opportunities?\n\n●\tWhat types of skills can I imbue my employees with that will improve my company?\n\n●\tWhat types of skills are my employees excited to learn?\n\nBy answering these questions, you’ll have a better sense of how to structure your organization’s upskilling program and achieve your leadership goals. \n\n### Remote Learning is the Future of Upskilling\n\nUpskilling is an amazing practice that is sweeping across a wide variety of different industries in the modern age. Fortunately, remote learning is making this process more accessible for organizations to engage in and find success by bolstering the skills of their employees. As time goes on and the popularity of upskilling continues to increase, it’s more than likely that remote learning will become one of the main tools that facilitates this type of educational endeavor. \n"},"publishedOn":"2024-05-24T00:00+02:00"}},{"node":{"url":"how-effective-is-it-to-upskill-employees-through-graduate-degree-and-certificates","title":"How Effective is it to Upskill Employees Through Graduate Degrees and Certificates?","description":{"description":"Any successful business is going to understand the importance of staying effective and relevant within the industry they inhabit. While there are plenty of ways to do this through technological innovation, adoption of new programs and systems, or something as simple as team building exercises, there is another way: upskilling employees. "},"body":{"body":"Any successful business is going to understand the importance of staying effective and relevant within the industry they inhabit. While there are plenty of ways to do this through technological innovation, adoption of new programs and systems, or something as simple as team building exercises, there is another way: upskilling employees. \n\nBeing that most technology is still human dependent, and the operations side of most businesses requires a human touch. Employers that understand these facts are also likely familiar with the benefits inherent within continuously investing into those same employees. When considering that fact along with the prediction that, by 2030, nearly 75% of the workforce is going to be made up of millennials who consider upskilling an important factor in which company they may work, employers may not be able to overlook such an offering. \n\nThere are multiple reasons and ways to do this, all of which point to the betterment of the company, its product or services, and its culture. Here are some effective ways to upskill employees through graduate degrees or certificates. \n\n### Why to Invest in Upskilling Employees\n\nDepending on the industry, the type of product or service, and the goal of each company's mission should be weighed carefully with the current accessibility and potential availability of the talents and skills necessary to accomplish those goals. \n\nUpskilling is a consistently effective way to see a collection of benefits on each of those levels. Some of the more immediate positive effects are in employees being able to stay informed and trained on the newest technological trends, the insight needed to properly comprehend appropriate utilization of those methods and means, as well as the practice to see that those tasks are done correctly. \n\nAdditionally, choosing to invest in just one or two proven, hardworking [employees with leadership potential](https://online.marymount.edu/blog/dei-leadership-skills-development) creates a whole new element: the chance to directly or indirectly educate other employees. This means that by seeing to the educational advancement of just one person, a whole team of people could eventually become informed by their experience. \n\n### Graduate Degrees or Certificates? \n\nAssuming that the decision has already been made that upskilling of certain employees should be done, the next step is to narrow down what type of educational path should be taken. Different industries require different skills, and becoming clear about things like where a company may be lacking. \n\nIs it in daily effectiveness, productivity, the knowledge to meet client or board member expectations, or being able to stay ahead of the competition? With new technology, business ideologies, and global policies continuing to mold the business landscape of many industries, being able to anticipate or, at the very least, keep up with the changes in that landscape can make a big difference in the long-term success of a company. \n\nAfter narrowing down what needs there are, honing in on what programs might best accommodate those goals should be the next question. [Graduate degrees in finance](https://online.vu.edu.au/blog/developing-finance-skills-key-tips-and-resources), business, or economics, though a much broader and longer program time, can create a diverse set of skills that experienced programs have been tailored to mimic. \n\nCertificates on the other hand are streamlined for a quick, and deep dive into a specific set of skills. Both are good choices, but the type of company, mission, and industry should inform the final choice. "},"publishedOn":"2024-05-02T00:00+02:00"}},{"node":{"url":"what-skills-are-required-for-trade-school-graduates-to-pursue-entrepreneurship","title":"What Skills are Required for Trade School Graduates to Pursue Entrepreneurship?","description":{"description":"Trade schools are an excellent college alternative. Not only do they cost significantly less than universities, but they also equip graduates with the skills they need to pursue high-paying careers. Many trade school graduates also have the potential to run their own businesses. If you are a skilled contractor, you can increase your earning potential considerably through self-employment. \nThe only problem? It takes a special set of skills that not everyone has organically. In this article, we take a look at what skills are required for trade school graduates to pursue entrepreneurship."},"body":{"body":"Trade schools are an excellent college alternative. Not only do they cost significantly less than universities, but they also equip graduates with the skills they need to pursue high-paying careers. Many trade school graduates also have the potential to run their own businesses. If you are a skilled contractor, you can increase your earning potential considerably through self-employment. \n\nThe only problem? It takes a special set of skills that not everyone has organically. In this article, we take a look at what skills are required for trade school graduates to pursue entrepreneurship.\n\n### Customer Service\n\nIt’s been routinely stated that customer service is the most important differentiator in the digital era. Back in the day, the saying went that a happy customer generally tells no one about their experience, while an irritated one will tell the next ten people they see. \n\nThe internet changes that. Thanks to Google Review and similar platforms, there is a massive audience for all of your mistakes. It’s important to know how to work with customers. \n\nSuccessful entrepreneurs will:\n- •\tUnlock the potential of online reviews: Encourage your customers to review their experiences with you online. The more Google reviews your business has, the higher it will rank on the search engine. Obviously, the hope is to get perfect scores. When someone does write in with complaints, respond online tactfully. It may be tempting to argue with a difficult customer but no one wants to work with a business owner who comes across as difficult or volatile. \n- •\tBe professional in all of your communications: It’s important to put a pretty face on all of your customer interactions. Smile. Be polite. Come across as professional. This means looking presentable when you show up at their house, and clearly communicating at every step of the process.\n- •\tBe clear, predictable, and transparent: Trade professions have a built-in degree of volatility. You don’t know exactly how long each appointment will take. You may not even discover the scope of the issue until thirty minutes of digging around. While you can’t make any guarantees, you should make a point of communicating as effectively as possible. Provide your customers with arrival windows and stick to them. Make honest estimates and do everything possible to stick to them. Complete projects within the timeframe that you first specified. When something goes wrong with someone’s home, they feel helpless. Business owners who can eliminate the uncertainty and confusion of the process will be highly valued. \n\nKeep in mind that most of your customers will have absolutely no idea what you offer in a professional sense. The average person doesn’t know much about electrical work, plumbing, etc. To them, the experience you provide will be the most important thing. It will mean the difference between building recommendations and repeat customers, and slipping through the cracks. \n\n### Think Sensibly About Your Pricing Structure\n\nPeople will often shop around and get different quotes before settling on a contractor. Price is not the only consideration that they take into account. However, when the solution to their problem is straightforward—say a job that requires a very specific set of actions—they will typically go with the business that offers the best rate. \nIf your brand develops a strong reputation for good customer service and excellent work, you may leverage those strengths into slightly higher rates. However, it’s always important to price your services competitively. Find out what other professionals in your community are charging and think strategically about how your prices will fit into the working ecosystem. \nWhat can you afford to charge and how attractive will those rates be for potential customers?\n\n### Scalability\n\nAs businesses improve and grow, they encounter new challenges. It’s what many people will call “growing pains.” It’s a good thing, but also a challenge that very few businesses navigate without making mistakes. \n\nHere’s the problem: you want to grow in a way that increases your revenue without negatively influencing your customer service or operating costs. In other words, how do you provide the same level of quality you always did but to more customers?\n\nOften, this will mean bringing on new hires and expanding your internal operations. Naturally, new employees means new considerations. You’ll need to develop [effective leadership skills](https://online.marymount.edu/blog/dei-leadership-skills-development) and communicate your expectations effectively. You’ll need to balance schedules and make sure quality standards are being maintained. \n\nIt’s important to think carefully not just about what new elements you introduce to your business but also when you do it. \nWait too long and it may diminish the level of service you provide. Do it too soon and it will needlessly raise your expenses. \n\n### Finance\n\nThe [financial aspect of business ownership](https://online.vu.edu.au/blog/developing-finance-skills-key-tips-and-resources) is a big barrier for many people. You need to understand how to set up an effective budget for your business and record your earnings. You also need to be able to remain compliant with tax law. You’ll find that filing as a business owner is different and more complex than filing as an individual.\n\nWhile you can outsource some of your financial responsibilities (it doesn’t cost that much to hire someone to handle your year-end taxes) the day-to-day responsibilities will ultimately fall on your shoulders. \n\nYou don’t need to get a degree in finance to run a business. Instead, consider online certification programs that will equip you with a basic understanding. These are a great way to learn the ropes at an affordable rate. \n\nAlso, don’t be afraid to tap into the wider community of business owners. Many entrepreneurs are all too happy to lift their peers up in the form of friendly advice and recommendations. \n\n### Conclusion\n\nWe could go on and on. There are also sales, marketing, and internal management considerations that every business owner must deal with. Books can and have been written about this topic. All of the various departments of a business are, in larger corporations, managed by people with degrees dedicated to the topic area. Can you learn them independently as a small business owner?\n\nYou definitely can. Many business ownership skills will be acquired through trial and error. The basics— like setting a budget, establishing your prices, and developing a customer experience strategy, can be learned through a combination of word of mouth and independent learning resources. \n\nBy graduating from trade school, you’ve already achieved the hardest part. Take the extra steps to turn those skills into a thriving business. "},"publishedOn":"2024-04-28T00:00+02:00"}},{"node":{"url":"skills-to-succeed-in-the-demanding-world-of-business-to-business-sales","title":"Skills to Succeed in the Demanding World of Business-to-Business Sales","description":{"description":"Business-to-business, or B2B, sales is a competitive industry for those working in it. From having to battle competitors for clients to having to engage in consistent marketing efforts, thriving in this world isn’t always easy. \n\nFortunately, knowing the right skills, practices, and principles can radically transform and improve your ability to find B2B sales success. As such, it’s important that you become familiar with some key techniques you can utilize. \n\nHere are skills to succeed in the demanding world of business-to-business sales. "},"body":{"body":"Business-to-business, or B2B, sales is a competitive industry for those working in it. From having to battle competitors for clients to having to engage in consistent marketing efforts, thriving in this world isn’t always easy. \n\nFortunately, knowing the right skills, practices, and principles can radically transform and improve your ability to find B2B sales success. As such, it’s important that you become familiar with some key techniques you can utilize. \n\nHere are skills to succeed in the demanding world of business-to-business sales. \n\n### Knowing What You’re Selling\n\nWhether you’re selling high-grade printers, accounting software, or cleaning services, it’s vital to know your product or service inside and out as a B2B salesperson. Essentially, you want to convey to your potential consumers that you truly understand and believe in what you’re selling. \n\nThough it may seem like extra work, taking the time to understand every minute detail of the product or service you’re selling will make you a significantly better salesperson in a variety of ways. For one, you’ll never be left not knowing an answer to your potential customer’s questions. \n\nAnother way this practice will help you sell is by being able to explain to consumers what ways your product or service will be able to help them solve their unique business challenges. Given these many benefits, it’s clear that any B2B salesperson striving for success should put time and effort into knowing what they’re selling. \n\n### Becoming a Better Listener\n\nWhen the average person thinks of a typical salesperson, they probably picture someone who talks fast and leaves no room for replies. In actuality, this is the exact tactic one would take if they wanted potential consumers to have their guard up and be suspicious. \n\nTo make potential consumers feel comfortable, it’s important to engage in active listening and truly hear what they’re saying. Whether they have concerns or hesitations, listening deeply will allow you to allay their doubts and actually sell them on the benefits of your products or services. \n\nFor example, a company that regularly [engages in green accounting](https://online.hilbert.edu/blog/green-accounting-and-sustainability-reporting/) may be concerned about the lack of sustainable features on your product. By clearly understanding this concern, you can truly help them change their mind. As such, honing your skills as a listener can bolster your skills to make B2B sales. \n\n### Knowing Who to Sell To\n\nDepending on the product or service you’re selling, you’ll have a select group of businesses who actually can benefit from your product. As you can imagine, focusing your time and energy on these target consumers is key. Sadly, this process is often easier said than done, and knowing who to target can sometimes be difficult. \n\nThis being the case, it’s important for you as a B2B salesperson to know both who you should be trying to sell to and how to find them. One amazing tactic is using various forms of lead generation to weed out the wrong businesses and get companies who are more likely to buy [deeper into your buyer’s journey](https://sites.suffolk.edu/ccpe/the-buyers-journey/). \n\nIn addition to creating robust sales funnels that target the right businesses, it’s also vital to understand the companies that can actually benefit from your product or service. By excelling in these areas, you’ll increase your chances of thriving in the competitive modern market of B2B sales. \n\n### Honing Your Presenting Skills\n\nWhile there are many soft skills and techniques you can use to thrive in B2B sales, as a salesperson, you still need to know how to sell. In particular, you need to be an ace at presenting your product or service to consumers in a way that makes them want it. \n\nThough it may sound cliche, the maxim “practice makes perfect,” rings true when it comes to honing your presenting skills. Whether it’s practicing with coworkers or joining Toast Master’s to become an excellent public speaker, the more reps you get the better you’ll be able to sell. \n\nBeyond becoming a better presenter, it’s also crucial that you tweak and improve your actual sales pitch and presentation until it’s immaculate. By engaging in these strategies, you’ll be able to find success in the sometimes trying realm of B2B sales. \n\n### You Can Become an Amazing B2B Salesperson\n\nDespite the difficulties that are commonly found in the B2B sales world, it’s possible to thrive as a salesperson. In particular, you have the power to improve your chances of finding success by engaging in key practices that bolster your ability to improve your sales record. So, if you’re looking for ways to improve your sales game, take advantage of these techniques and watch as your sales soar. "},"publishedOn":"2024-04-14T00:00+02:00"}},{"node":{"url":"a-managers-guide-to-making-new-team-members-feel-welcome","title":"A Manager's Guide to Making New Team Members Feel Welcome","description":{"description":"Starting a new job is full of emotions, not just for the new employee but for the employer and the present team members. Of all the many ways that an employer can go about bringing a new hire up to speed, there are ways to do so for function and efficiency, as well as steps to make them feel part of the team. While both are important in their own right, the latter may have the greater impact. \n\nThe following is a collection of suggestions for how managers can make new team members feel welcome. "},"body":{"body":"Starting a new job is full of emotions, not just for the new employee but for the employer and the present team members. Of all the many ways that an employer can go about bringing a new hire up to speed, there are ways to do so for function and efficiency, as well as steps to make them feel part of the team. While both are important in their own right, the latter may have the greater impact. \n\nThe following is a collection of suggestions for how managers can make new team members feel welcome. \n\n### Tips for Making a New Employee Feel Welcome\n\n#### Set Up Their Workspace\n\nNo matter what type of job may be started, every employee will likely have a space that they occupy over the course of the day, week, or in attending to their responsibilities. Employers go out of their way to ensure that that space is clean and clear of any junk or debris that might be left over from a previous employee. A cluttered space means an occupied space, and if something is already occupied, then there is less of a sense of individual ownership that can be felt. \n\nBy ensuring that the space or tools that an employee is given makes them feel like they have their own space to manage and control in a way that suits their own needs, supporting the [developmental skills](https://online.marymount.edu/blog/dei-leadership-skills-development) and habits that they bring to the team which allows them to contribute in new, individualized ways. \n\n#### Tours \n\nNo matter the size of the office, warehouse, or route, a lot of time can be lost when being inundated with too much information. While [memory tips help](https://onlineprograms.ecu.edu/blog/how-does-human-memory-work/), a tour can be easier to utilize. Experienced employees have likely learned many different things— nuances about the workplace, the route or the people that are already part of the business. \n\nPassing on tips and suggestions for how to best navigate, and interact with people and equipment, or just the routines of the day-to-day schedule means that a new employee can be brought up to speed faster than one who is left to their own devices. Additionally, taking the time to give a tour shows that others care, doing much to make a new employee feel welcome. \n\n#### Give Them an Office Buddy \n\nBeing that new jobs often entail many different features; the first couple days of working can sometimes be overwhelming. New spaces, challenging projects, nerves about doing a good job, unfamiliar people, all of these things can add up to creating a level of anxiety that can impede comfortability and efficiency. A great way to mitigate such things is by carefully selecting a seasoned, volunteer employee who is not only great at their job but wonderful at making people feel welcome. \n\nThe ideal office buddy is familiar and efficient at their job in a variety of ways. They are proficient with software and technologies, equipment, or the flow of a week's schedules; they are familiar with client personalities. The same things apply for melding with the office team: knowing who is great at their job and who is not the best example. The ideal office buddy can clarify all this quickly all while making the new hire feel welcome. "},"publishedOn":"2024-03-24T00:00+01:00"}},{"node":{"url":"strategies-for-enhancing-veterans-skills-for-successful-workforce-reentry","title":"Strategies for Enhancing Veterans' Skills for Successful Workforce Reentry","description":{"description":"Serving one’s country is an admirable feat — especially when one is risking one’s life to do so. Sadly, however, many veterans struggle to reenter the workforce after serving. As a result, many are wondering what types of strategies can be implemented to help solve this problem. \n\nFortunately, there are keyways to empower veterans, impart them with valuable skills, and make it easier for them to find fulfilling careers. Understanding key strategies for making this happen is vital for gaining a broader perspective on ways that veterans should be aided in the modern world. \n\nHere are strategies for enhancing veterans’ skills for successful workforce reentry. "},"body":{"body":"Serving one’s country is an admirable feat — especially when one is risking one’s life to do so. Sadly, however, many veterans struggle to reenter the workforce after serving. As a result, many are wondering what types of strategies can be implemented to help solve this problem. \n\nFortunately, there are keyways to empower veterans, impart them with valuable skills, and make it easier for them to find fulfilling careers. Understanding key strategies for making this happen is vital for gaining a broader perspective on ways that veterans should be aided in the modern world. \n\nHere are strategies for enhancing veterans’ skills for successful workforce reentry. \n\n### Becoming Familiar with Resumes and the Interview Process\n\nFor many veterans, the process of crafting a resume and engaging in interviews may seem like an alien process. This is because there are specific rules — many of which are unspoken — that help guide how these processes should go. This being the case, having programs and resources that help veterans become resume and interview pros can have a significant and beneficial impact. \n\nFor example, free resume templates and guidelines for veterans are great and accessible ways to get veterans to apply for jobs. In addition, it takes a lot of the guesswork out of the equation for veterans in the job application process. \n\nInterview coaching and practice resources are also amazing ways to aid veterans on their journey to landing new jobs. This practice allows veterans to be exposed to common interview questions and become more comfortable with the process itself. \n\nUltimately, incorporating resume and interview practice resources into [veteran benefit](https://online.nccu.edu/blog/north-carolina-veterans-benefits/) policies is a great way to jumpstart the job search for countless veterans across the country. \n\n### Identifying Key Professional Skills\n\nDuring a career in the army, individuals develop a wide variety of valuable and transferable job skills. However, it’s not always clear to veterans reentering the workforce which of these skills they should be highlighting to employers. \n\nFortunately, having resources for veterans can solve this problem and make it easier for veterans to land fulfilling and rewarding career roles. For example, veterans who had leadership duties during their time serving may be perfect for project management roles in the civilian workforce. \n\nUltimately, this simple act of identifying key skills is a great way for veterans to make themselves attractive candidates that employees want to hire. As such, resources that help veterans accomplish this aim can be incredibly beneficial in the modern age. \n\n### Furthering Education\n\nThough many veterans reentering the workforce may be eager to start as soon as possible, the truth is that furthering one’s education may be a better choice. Beyond helping veterans hone their professional skills, it also makes it easier for these individuals to land jobs and have employers trust their abilities. \n\nThankfully, veterans already have access to a wide variety of educational benefits that can make higher education much cheaper or even completely free. This means that whether a veteran wants to take a course to become a carpenter or a program to try [nursing as a second career](https://onlinenursing.baylor.edu/news/how-prepare-for-nursing-school), there are options available to them. \n\nThe more that veterans are aware of their potential second career options, the more likely they’ll be to find the perfect role. This being the case, efforts to spread awareness about veteran educational benefits are a great way to empower veterans to reenter the workforce and find fulfilling roles. \n\n### There are Ways to Empower Veterans Reentering the Workforce\n\nThough the transition can sometimes be difficult, providing veterans with the right resources can make it far easier for them to reenter the workforce. This being the case, many are hopeful that new efforts will be implemented to make this transition smoother and more accessible for scores of veterans across the country. \n"},"publishedOn":"2024-03-23T00:00+01:00"}},{"node":{"url":"key-skills-that-transfer-across-all-professional-sectors","title":"Key Skills That Transfer Across All Professional Sectors","description":{"description":"For aspiring and veteran professionals alike, evolving and learning new skills is always beneficial. From adding more value to your employer to becoming qualified for exciting new roles, self-development is a key aspect of all professional growth. \n\nHowever, while you may be convinced that learning new skills is great, you may not want to pour copious amounts of time and energy into skills that won’t help your professional growth. Fortunately, the process becomes far more accessible once you have a rough understanding of which key skills can boost your career regardless of the field you work in. \n\nHere are key skills that transfer across all professional sectors. "},"body":{"body":"For aspiring and veteran professionals alike, evolving and learning new skills is always beneficial. From adding more value to your employer to becoming qualified for exciting new roles, self-development is a key aspect of all professional growth. \n\nHowever, while you may be convinced that learning new skills is great, you may not want to pour copious amounts of time and energy into skills that won’t help your professional growth. Fortunately, the process becomes far more accessible once you have a rough understanding of which key skills can boost your career regardless of the field you work in. \n\nHere are key skills that transfer across all professional sectors. \n\n### Communication\n\nWhether it’s in your school, professional, or social life, you’ve likely heard the phrase: “Communication is key.” Though it may seem obvious, there is more truth in this quote than you might think at first glance. \n\nIn virtually all aspects of life, being able to convey your thoughts and ideas in a clear and articulate way is crucial. Without doing so, you run the risk of not being on the same page as those you interact with. \n\nWhen it comes to the workplace, being understood is incredibly important — especially for those of you intent on growing into more advanced roles. As such, no matter what industry you find yourself working in, whether it’s as a [business analyst](https://online.scu.edu.au/blog/complete-guide-to-business-analyst-skills/) or an entrepreneur, you can get closer to achieving success by becoming a better communicator. \n\nSome key practices you can engage in to bolster your communication skills include:\n\n__Listening attentively__: A disheartening number of professionals are subpar at listening to others. As a result, their communication suffers. To be an excellent communicator, it’s important to listen closely to what others say and process what someone is saying before formulating a response. \n\n__Thinking before you speak__: Though it can sometimes be challenging to stop yourself from immediately jumping into conversations, this process will make you a better communicator. Before you communicate with someone, think about what you are going to say, why you are saying it, and what you hope the other party will gain from your words. \n\n__Being concise__: While you may love the beauty of prose and poetry, in the professional world, flowery language and long diatribes can be disastrous. Instead, practicing being concise when you communicate will make your thoughts and ideas clearer to those around you. \n\n### Financial Skills\n\nWhile there are countless different and unique industries in the world, the truth is that all businesses revolve around the same vital concepts. Namely, that the point of the operation is to make more money than has been put into the business. \n\nThis being the case, [developing financial skills](https://online.vu.edu.au/blog/developing-finance-skills-key-tips-and-resources) can give you a leg up on your professional coworkers, peers, and clients in meaningful ways. \n\nFor one, cultivating a deep understanding of the financial side of your business will simply give you a better gauge of how your business operates. With this knowledge in tow, you can start engaging in practices that further boost your business and help it thrive. \n\nOne amazing byproduct of this process is that your bosses and superiors will likely start to notice your contributions to the company. As a result, you’ll be more likely to score bonuses and be put up for promotions when the time comes. \n\nSome great ways to improve financial skills include:\n\n__Looking for patterns__: Analytical thinking is a key financial skill that can help you comprehend financial data and look for ways to improve your business. To bolster your analytical skills, it can help to engage in practices that help you detect patterns, such as looking over financial documents and playing games such as sudoku. \n\n__Understanding financial risks__: One of the main practices that financial planners and strategists engage in is detecting financial risks. This helps them steer companies clear of financial disasters. To bolster your knowledge of finances, it’s crucial to develop an understanding of different types of financial risk, especially those unique to your industry. \n\n__Familiarizing yourself with software__: Technological innovations have changed the world in many ways. In finance and business, the utilization of finance technology is a huge shift that is now commonplace across industries. To make sure you’re able to keep up-to-date with the financial processes of your company, it’s important to understand and know how to use the newest and most common finance-related software. \n\n### Leadership\n\nLook at virtually any business in any industry and you’re sure to find someone in a leadership position. The reason for this is that failing to have someone guiding the ship almost always results in chaotic and disjointed business processes. \n\nWhether you aspire to open your own venture or want to thrive in your current role within a company, displaying leadership qualities can help you attain your goal. In addition, becoming a better leader will galvanize those around you and help you gain respect in the professional world. \n\nSome amazing practices you can utilize to become a better leader include:\n\n__Taking feedback__: Though it’s not always easy to stomach, getting feedback from others is an immensely effective way to grow as a professional. As such, eliciting feedback from others about your leadership will help you pinpoint which areas you need to work on improving in order to become the best leader you can be. \n\n__Solving problems__: No matter what leadership role you find yourself in, you’ll most likely be responsible for solving a slew of problems. This means that you must practice solving various problems to cultivate more effective and efficient problem-solving abilities. \n\n__Developing others__: A key trait of great leaders is having a vested interest in those that one leads. In other words, wanting those under you to grow and evolve into better people and professionals. This being the case, you can improve your leadership skills by helping those around you develop professionally and become more valuable employees. \n\n### All Professionals Can Improve Their Ability to Succeed\n\nWhile there are countless amazing skills that you can learn, some key skills are amazing no matter what industry you’re in. In particular, bolstering your communication, finance, and leadership skills can help you find success in any sector you find yourself in. This being the case, if you’re a professional intent on growing and reaching your business goals, be sure to invest time and effort into honing these vital skills. "},"publishedOn":"2024-02-25T00:00+01:00"}}]}},"pageContext":{"skip":50,"limit":10,"pageNumber":6,"hasPrevPage":true,"prevPageLink":"/blog/5","hasNextPage":true,"nextPageLink":"/blog/7"}},
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