5 Ways to Work Your Network and Land Your Dream Job

There are things that just work, no matter what the industry, occasion or decade.

Networking is one of those things.

And we’re not just referring to the more common online methods used today — in-person connections are valuable, too. The reason? It’s all about finding your edge. Applying the traditional way is a tedious process, leaving many job seekers feeling like their polished resumes are sent to a bottomless black box. But candidates who can find a personal link are more likely to land the job. Or even bag a role that isn’t being advertised.

Here are five tips to broadening your professional network — and have fun along the way.

1. Attend a professional event near you

This can be a seminar, workshop or networking event that allows you to meet and interact with professionals who share your interests. When it comes to forging career-based relationships, settings that already lend themselves to these type of conversations are generally the easiest. Questions about a person’s skill set, current role, place of employment and future goals are par for the course. They’re also great introductory touchstones for shy professionals who are not as comfortable meeting new people.

2. Leverage LinkedIn and Facebook

Social media is a powerful tool, especially when it comes to connecting and engaging with, well, strangers. Why not utilize it to grow your professional life? Find Facebook groups that are dedicated to your industry. Pose questions. Interact. And when someone posts a career opportunity, you can act — and already have a personal contact with the company.

When it comes to LinkedIn, the networking process is even easier. This is what it’s for. But the real work is in the details. Maintaining an up-to-date profile is key, and should include projects, examples of your work or other elements that showcase your skill set. You can also tap into your alumni connections through the platform, or reach out to industry experts you admire for insights, leads and advice.

3. Join Meet-Ups and clubs

Who said networking had to stick with the obvious? Many professionals seek outside forums to meet people who share similar interests and backgrounds, career-related or not. Join a local Meet-Up or club — you never know where those new connections can lead.

4. Don’t discount family and friends

Thinking outside the traditional outlets can also be applied with your loved ones. Share your aspirations and goals with friends and family. Because in a world where it’s all about who you know, sometimes relying on who others know can be just the break you need to find your next career opportunity.

5. Tend to your new relationships

Remember: people can sense when your motives are less than genuine. Networking is a mutually beneficial process, so it’s important to approach these new connections like you would any working or social relationship — as people. Send messages to check-in or get an update on what’s going on in their lives. Invite them to coffee or in-person meetings, if you’re comfortable. And be open to sharing tips or leads when you can.

Do you need help finding your next permanent or temporary job? Submit your resume and put our team’s network to work for you!

Q2 Accounting and Finance Employment Report

Q1 ended on a high note — painting the picture of a healthy job market as March came to a close. February’s disappointing 20,000 jobs even edged upward to a revised 33,000, while the Labor Department reported an impressive gain of 196,000 jobs last month.

These figures surpass most economists’ expectations as the threat of a slowing economy appears to be abated for now. But growth is moderate, especially in comparison to last year’s stellar numbers. According to The New York Times, 2018’s high job production rate wasn’t sustainable long-term, and strong hiring in several sectors — including professional and business services — is a positive sign for the U.S. labor force. Pay increases also indicate continued economic expansion, with hourly wages reported as 3.2% higher than last March’s.

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE REMAINS STEADY

Source: BLS

The Bureau Labor of Statistics reported the unemployment rate remained at 3.8% in March, while the number for college-degreed workers shrunk from 2.2 to just 2 percent. This number is even lower for accountants and auditors. For Q1, BLS reported the unemployment rate at 1.8% .

Here’s the unemployment breakdown by roles:

  • Financial analysts: 1.0%
  • Financial managers: 2.3%
  • Accountants and auditors: 1.8%
  • Bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks: 2.0%
  • Billing and posting clerks: 1.2%
  • Compliance officers: 0.8%

Bottom line: Skilled and credentialed financial professionals remain in-demand, as employers continue to compete for top talent.

CENTURY GROUP’S FORECAST

For Employers

The story hasn’t changed much. For employers, a tight labor market and a low, steady unemployment rate translates to more hiring and recruiting challenges as we move into Q2. To stand out, showcase aspects that are attractive to today’s talent: engaging company culture, competitive compensation packages and roles that offer growth and mentorship opportunities.

Companies seeking candidates with specific skill sets should consider the help of staffing and recruiting firms that can help identify professionals with the right background.

For Candidates

This candidate-driven market has given job seekers an edge. Your skills are a valuable resource — use that to your advantage.

Take the time to weigh what factors are most important when identifying your next career opportunity. Is work-life balance a priority? How about benefits and perks? Make sure you address these areas during the interview process, so you can find the best position — and company — for you. Becoming a temporary worker is also a profitable way to experience different roles on a more flexible schedule.

For those candidates who want to make themselves even more attractive to employers, consider upskilling. According to our 2019 Salary Guide, accounting and finance professionals with CPAs and MBAs are the most sought after. Improving your soft skills is also an option for job seekers looking to get ahead, and can be applied throughout your career.

Download our 2019 Salary Guide for more industry trends and insights, or contact our team to help with your hiring needs.

5 Ways to Overcome Stress at Work

It’s time to take back control of your workday. Stress can easily curb your productivity — but only if you let it. Here are 5 steps to help overcome stress at work, so you can make the most of your nine to five.

1. Prioritize

You don’t have to be a list person to understand the importance of prioritizing. Life is messy and this is true in our professional lives, too. Learn to deconstruct the chaos. What needs to get done first? What can wait?  Breaking down the project or problem into itemized tasks of importance can help make the impossible seem doable.

2. Learn to Say No

Setting boundaries is key to maintaining your mental and emotional health. People-pleasers and overachievers, take note — it’s OK to say no sometimes. Know your limits and work to delegate or manage the workload realistically. This can also apply to after-office engagements or social plans. Any time you can put toward self-care or completing items on your to-do list can lessen the stress in all areas of your life.

3. Get Up and Move

There’s a lot of scientific data out there that illustrates the negative impact sitting behind a computer screen all day has on your well-being. That’s not as important here. We’re talking about the immediate, stress-reducing effects you can feel by breaking up your sedentary situation throughout the day. Take a brief walk around your building; spend time outside if the weather permits. Even standing up and performing a quick stretch by your work station can help loosen up the body, increase blood flow and release mood-boosting endorphins.

4. Find a Friend

Generally speaking, human beings are social creatures. Leaning on your peers for support, insight or even a friendly break can give your mind a much needed pause — allowing you to take a moment, reflect and approach the stressor with a clear head.

5. Listen to Music

Music therapy is an actual thing. Jamming out to your favorite tunes can boost your mood, lower cortisol levels and functions as an effective stress-reliever. Set a soothing workday backdrop to make tedious or taxing tasks more enjoyable — your mindset (and ears) will thank you.

 

Why Productive Relationships in the Workplace are Essential

It’s no secret the role company culture plays in both courting and retaining today’s top talent. In fact, financial professionals surveyed in our 2018 Compensation Report ranked the topic as a leading reason for choosing a new position or staying with a company.

And the key to culture: the people.

Establishing relationships with your coworkers is one of the most significant — and often challenging — aspects of starting a new role. Make the process smoother for recent hires by introducing them to colleagues they’ll frequently collaborate with. Employers should also connect employees with a training buddy who can provide the support they need to successfully transition.

“The first 90 days are going to be the most difficult,” says Century Group’s CEO Ron Proul. “They’ll be establishing a new routine and it’s not unusual for them to feel uncomfortable.”

Think about it: most employed individuals spend the majority of their days at work. Forging working relationships with your colleagues is proven to spur productivity, decrease work-related stress and even positively impact your emotional well-being — an aspect that is especially vulnerable during this period. Alliances can help them gain confidence in their new position, and is critical to securing early wins. But keep in mind that integrating someone into the company is a process, not an event.

“There needs to be a conscious effort on the part of managers and colleagues to check in with new employees and connect with them,” explains Ron Blair, President and COO. “It can take many forms — going to lunch, happy hour, informal check-ins, a phone call or grabbing coffee. It’s little informal moments like these that express the company culture and set up people for success.”

ABOUT “THE FIRST 90 DAYS: SET YOUR NEW HIRE UP FOR SUCCESS”

“The First 90 Days: Set Your New Hire Up for Success,” with concepts adapted from “The First 90 Days” by Michael D. Watkins, is a three-part series designed to help companies onboard their new hires for optimal success. Be sure to lookout for Part 2 and Part 3 in the coming weeks.