Innovations in Pre-Employment Screening in the Construction Industry

Pre-employment screening is a crucial step in the hiring process for construction companies, ensuring that they select qualified, reliable, and safety-conscious workers for their projects. Traditionally, pre-employment screening has involved background checks, drug testing, and verification of qualifications. However, with advancements in technology and changing industry needs, innovative approaches to pre-employment screening are emerging, employers need to stay abreast of the latest innovations in pre-employment screening for construction workers and how these technologies and methods are revolutionizing the hiring process and improving workforce quality and safety.

The Importance of Pre-Employment Screening in Construction:

In the construction industry, where safety is paramount and the quality of work directly impacts project outcomes, pre-employment screening plays a vital role in mitigating risks and ensuring workforce competency. Effective pre-employment screening helps construction companies:

Ensure Safety: Screening for drug use, criminal history, and safety violations helps identify candidates who may pose a risk to workplace safety, reducing the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and liability claims.
Verify Qualifications: Verifying the qualifications, certifications, and licenses of candidates ensures that they possess the skills and credentials needed to perform their job duties safely and effectively.
Protect Company Reputation: Hiring workers with a history of misconduct or incompetence can damage a construction company’s reputation and credibility, leading to lost contracts, legal issues, and financial losses.
Improve Workforce Quality: Pre-employment screening helps construction companies attract and retain high-quality talent, leading to improved project outcomes, client satisfaction, and profitability.

Innovations in Pre-Employment Screening for Construction Workers:

Biometric Identification: Biometric identification technologies, such as fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, and iris scanning, are revolutionizing the way construction companies verify the identity of job applicants. Biometric identification systems provide a secure, efficient, and accurate method of verifying the identity of candidates, reducing the risk of identity theft, fraud, and impersonation.

Behavioral Assessments: Behavioral assessments use psychometric testing and personality assessments to evaluate the behavioral traits, attitudes, and work styles of job applicants. These assessments help construction companies identify candidates who possess the right temperament, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities to succeed in the construction industry. Behavioral assessments can also uncover red flags, such as impulsivity, aggression, or dishonesty, that may indicate a poor fit for the job.

Virtual Reality Simulations: Virtual reality (VR) simulations allow construction companies to assess the technical skills, spatial awareness, and problem-solving abilities of job applicants in a simulated work environment. VR simulations provide candidates with hands-on experience of performing common construction tasks, such as operating heavy machinery, erecting scaffolding, or reading blueprints, allowing recruiters to evaluate their proficiency and readiness for the job.

Predictive Analytics: Predictive analytics uses data analysis and machine learning algorithms to predict the future performance, behavior, and retention of job applicants based on their past experiences, qualifications, and attributes. By analyzing large datasets of historical hiring data, construction companies can identify patterns, trends, and correlations that indicate which candidates are most likely to succeed in specific roles. Predictive analytics can also help companies identify areas for improvement in their recruitment processes and make data-driven decisions to optimize workforce planning and management.

Blockchain Verification: Blockchain technology offers a secure and tamper-proof method of verifying the qualifications, certifications, and licenses of job applicants. By storing credentialing information on a decentralized ledger, construction companies can ensure the authenticity and integrity of candidate credentials, reducing the risk of fraud, misrepresentation, and credentialing errors. Blockchain verification also streamlines the verification process, reducing administrative burden and accelerating time-to-hire.

Remote Proctoring: Remote proctoring technologies allow construction companies to administer pre-employment assessments and tests to job applicants remotely, eliminating the need for candidates to travel to testing centers or offices. Remote proctoring solutions use webcams, microphones, and screen monitoring software to ensure test integrity and prevent cheating, allowing companies to assess candidates’ skills and competencies efficiently and cost-effectively.

Social Media Screening: Social media screening involves monitoring and analyzing job applicants’ social media profiles to assess their suitability, professionalism, and cultural fit for a job role. While controversial, social media screening can provide construction companies with valuable insights into candidates’ behavior, attitudes, and character traits that may not be evident from traditional application materials. However, companies must be mindful of legal and ethical considerations and ensure that social media screening is conducted in a fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory manner.

Best Practices for Implementing Innovative Pre-Employment Screening:

Define Screening Criteria: Clearly define the screening criteria and requirements for each job role based on the specific skills, qualifications, and attributes needed for success.
Select Appropriate Technologies: Choose pre-employment screening technologies and methods that align with your company’s needs, budget, and objectives, taking into account factors such as accuracy, reliability, scalability, and ease of implementation.
Ensure Compliance: Ensure that pre-employment screening processes comply with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards, including data privacy, anti-discrimination, and fair hiring practices.
Provide Training and Support: Provide training and support to recruiters, hiring managers, and candidates to ensure they understand the purpose, process, and implications of pre-employment screening and how to navigate the screening process effectively.
Maintain Transparency: Maintain transparency and open communication with candidates throughout the screening process, providing clear explanations of the screening criteria, procedures, and outcomes.

Webuild Staffing Agency is a leading executive search and staffing agency dedicated to the construction, engineering and environmental industries. To learn more please visit: www.webuildstaffing.com

How Construction Companies Expertly Recruit Their Dream Team

The construction industry and the infrastructure that dedicated construction professionals build, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and capability. Yet, behind every towering skyscraper and intricate infrastructure lies the sweat and toil of skilled workers. But how do construction companies weave together the perfect team?

Understanding Construction Companies, Industry’s Labor Landscape:

Unlike many industries, the construction industry demands a wide range of skills, from architects and engineers to carpenters and electricians. The industry is often characterized by cyclical demand, seasonal fluctuations, and the need to adapt to rapidly evolving technologies and regulations. So building a team of professionals that work seamlessly to construct complex infrastructure takes time.

Employers utilize a wide range of techniques to find talented professionals:

Define Job Roles and Requirements: The cornerstone of any recruitment strategy lies in defining job roles and qualifications. Whether it’s for a project manager, site supervisor, or skilled laborer, clarity in job descriptions ensures that candidates possess the requisite skills and experience.
Leverage Online Platforms: In today’s digital age, online platforms like LinkedIn, Monster, CareerBuilder serve as invaluable tools for reaching a broader pool of candidates. From industry-specific job boards to social media platforms like LinkedIn, construction companies harness the power of technology to attract top talent.
Network and Industry Connections: Networking remains a potent force in the construction industry. Whether it’s attending industry events, participating in trade associations, or fostering relationships with educational institutions, tapping into existing networks can yield promising recruitment leads.
Employee Referral Programs: The adage “birds of a feather flock together” holds true in recruitment as well. Many construction firms incentivize employees to refer qualified candidates, leveraging the trust and camaraderie within existing teams to identify potential hires.
Collaboration with Recruitment Agencies: Partnering with specialized recruitment agencies can streamline the hiring process by tapping into their expertise and extensive candidate networks. These agencies often possess insights into market trends, salary benchmarks, and candidate availability, offering a competitive edge to construction companies. A leading recruitment agency in the construction industry is Webuild Staffing www.webuildstaffing.com
Apprenticeship and Training Programs: Recognizing the importance of nurturing talent from within, many construction companies invest in apprenticeship and training programs. By offering hands-on experience and mentorship opportunities, these initiatives not only cultivate a skilled workforce but also foster loyalty and retention.
Embracing Diversity and Inclusion: In an industry historically dominated by male workers, there’s a growing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion. Construction companies actively seek to diversify their workforce, tapping into a broader talent pool while fostering a culture of equality and innovation.
Showcasing Company Culture and Values: Beyond job roles and qualifications, candidates are increasingly drawn to companies that align with their values and offer a supportive work culture. Construction firms leverage employer branding initiatives to showcase their commitment to safety, sustainability, and employee well-being, thereby attracting like-minded individuals.
Assessment and Selection Process: From initial screenings to in-depth interviews and skill assessments, the selection process plays a pivotal role in identifying the right candidates. Construction companies employ a mix of behavioral interviews, technical assessments, and on-the-job trials to evaluate candidates’ suitability for the role and the organization.
Competitive Compensation and Benefits Packages: While passion for the craft often drives individuals to the construction industry, competitive compensation and benefits packages remain crucial in attracting and retaining top talent. Construction companies benchmark their offerings against industry standards, ensuring they remain attractive to prospective hires.

By adopting a strategic and multifaceted approach to recruitment, construction companies can assemble teams of skilled professionals capable of tackling the most complex challenges. From leveraging technology and networking to fostering diversity and investing in employee development, the key lies in understanding the unique needs of the industry and aligning recruitment efforts accordingly.

We build Staffing Agency is a leading executive search and staffing agency dedicated to the construction, engineering and environmental industries. To learn more please visit: https://www.webuildstaffing.com/

Finding the Right Fit: How to Screen an Engineer for Project Success

The success of a project often hinges on assembling the right team of professionals. Whether you’re a project manager, an engineering lead, or part of a hiring committee, the process of screening engineering job candidates is crucial to ensure that they are the perfect fit for the project at hand. Let’s walk you through the steps to effectively screen an engineer for project success on specific projects, helping you make informed decisions that will drive project success.

Define Project Requirements

Before you begin screening candidates, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the project’s requirements. Work closely with project stakeholders to create a comprehensive list of skills, qualifications, and expertise needed for success. Consider technical skills, project-specific knowledge, and any industry certifications that may be required.

Craft Targeted Job Postings

Based on the project requirements, craft job postings that are specific and detailed. Clearly communicate the skills and qualifications candidates must possess to be considered for the role. Tailor the job postings to attract candidates with the right expertise for the project.

Resume and Application Review

Review candidates’ resumes and applications carefully. Pay close attention to their work experience, educational background, and certifications. Look for candidates who have relevant experience in similar projects or industries. Ensure that their qualifications align with the project’s specific requirements.

Conduct Initial Screening Interviews

After the resume review, conduct initial screening interviews. These can be phone or video interviews to assess candidates’ technical skills, project-specific knowledge, and overall fit for the project. Ask questions that delve into their past experiences and how they can contribute to the project’s success.

Assess Problem-Solving Abilities

Engineering projects often require creative problem-solving. Include technical assessments or problem-solving exercises during the screening process to evaluate candidates’ ability to tackle challenges relevant to the project. This can provide valuable insights into their practical skills.

Evaluate Communication Skills

Effective communication is vital for project success. Assess candidates’ communication skills, both written and verbal. They should be able to explain complex engineering concepts clearly and collaborate effectively with team members and stakeholders.

Check References

Contact candidates’ references to validate their qualifications and past performance. Ask about their experience working on similar projects, their teamwork and communication skills, and their ability to meet project deadlines and objectives.

Consider Cultural Fit

Assess candidates’ cultural fit with the project team and organization. Ensure that they align with the company’s values and work well within the project’s work environment. Cultural fit can significantly impact team dynamics and project outcomes.

Review Portfolios and Past Projects

Candidates should provide portfolios or examples of their past projects. Review these materials to gain a deeper understanding of their work and accomplishments. Look for projects that demonstrate their ability to excel in roles similar to the one they’re being considered for.

Evaluate Soft Skills

In addition to technical skills, evaluate candidates’ soft skills, such as leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving. These skills play a crucial role in project management and team dynamics.

Assess Industry-Specific Knowledge

For projects in specialized industries, such as aerospace or renewable energy, assess candidates’ industry-specific knowledge and experience. They should be well-versed in industry regulations, standards, and best practices.

Collaborate with Cross-Functional Teams

If the project involves multiple disciplines or departments, collaborate with cross-functional teams during the screening process. This ensures that candidates have the necessary skills and expertise to work effectively with diverse team members.

Use Behavioral Interviews

Behavioral interviews focus on candidates’ past behavior and experiences. Ask candidates to provide examples of how they have handled specific situations or challenges in previous projects. This approach can reveal their problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills.

Simulate Project Scenarios

Simulate real project scenarios or challenges and ask candidates how they would approach them. This can provide valuable insights into their problem-solving methods, decision-making processes, and their ability to adapt to project-specific situations.

Continuous Evaluation and Feedback

Throughout the screening process, continuously evaluate candidates and gather feedback from interviewers and team members. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each candidate and assess their alignment with the project’s requirements.

In Conclusion: Building the Dream Engineering Team

Screening engineering job candidates for specific projects is a meticulous and multifaceted process. It requires a deep understanding of project requirements, rigorous assessment methods, and a keen eye for qualifications and cultural fit. By following these steps and customizing the screening process to fit your project’s needs, you can assemble the dream engineering team that will drive your project to success. Remember that an effective screening process not only benefits the project but also contributes to the professional growth and development of the engineering candidates you select.

Webuild Staffing Agency is a leading executive search and staffing agency dedicated to the construction, engineering and environmental industries. To learn more please visit: www.webuildstaffing.com

8 Mistakes You’re Making in Your Job Hunt – Fix them!!

8 Mistakes You’re Making in Your Job Hunt For a Construction, Engineering or Environmental Jobs – Fix them!!

Looking for a job is one of the most stressful activities in a person’s life. It is especially difficult if what you’re searching for requires certain levels of experience or you don’t meet all qualifications.

If you’ve sent in hundreds of applications, been in dozens of interviews, and still haven’t had success (or worse, gotten no interviews), it might not be that the job market is “tight right now.” You want a good job, and blaming your situation will do nothing to get you that job.

If that’s you, then it’s time to take a look at what you’re doing wrong. Here are 8 reasons that you’re not getting hired in the construction, engineering or environmental industries.

You are not networking

There’s a saying that your network is your net worth. This is as true today as it has always been. Although the advent of the internet has made finding new opportunities much simpler, you still cannot avoid human interaction.

Go to networking events and talk to people who work at the company you want to work for. Building a relationship with people that have access to what you want can never do you wrong. Networking events have incredible value associated with them because of the connections that can be made. Don’t stop at only talking to people who work at your dream company, either. Talk to everybody that goes there. Becoming a master at interacting with others never hurts, and you might find even better opportunities than you initially had in mind.

You don’t know how to sell yourself

A lot of people apply a negative connotation to selling. They view selling as greedy and untrustworthy. This is false because everyone is selling something all the time. Whether you’re in an interview, going on a date, or trying to negotiate a raise, you’re selling the other person on why you should get what you want.

You need to be clear and confident in what you convey, both in your resume and in the interview. Employers want to know that you truly have the skills and knowledge it takes to enhance their business and current projects.

Your resume doesn’t portray measurable accomplishments

This may be something that you’ve already heard before. When employers are deciding on who to hire on to their team, they’re impressed by proof of their ability. That proof comes in the form of specific, measurable results they have obtained.

It’s not enough to say that you “helped a organization get more sales or finish a project.” You need to use analytics and numbers when talking about what you’ve accomplished. Saying that you “increased sales by 38% each quarter” is not only more believable, but you stand out to the hiring manager as a person that’s likely to bring them success.

You plain lack interest in the job

I get it. You would rather work somewhere else doing something different, so you’re not excited about going for anything less than that. This is dangerous because employers can sense a lack of interest.

It’s hard to fake enthusiasm about something you couldn’t care less about. If you feel like you won’t enjoy your role or the company, don’t apply there. It’ll save both them and you the time of interviewing and showing disinterest.

You haven’t done your homework

One of the most common questions in interviews is why you want to work for the company. Especially if you’re going into a sales-related role, they want to see you doing the work before you’ve even started.

Research the company as if it was a potential client you would have to make a sale to. Then, when it comes time for you to answer this question, you can confidently answer with what you’ve learned about the company and why it impresses you. You can also confidently answer how you will bring value to the company.

You don’t have the qualifications

This one is difficult to get around. Sometimes, it’s difficult to have the necessary qualifications that employers are asking for. Just remember that their desire is to see that you know how to do the job in question, do it well, or be able to learn it quickly.

There are ways to maneuver around this. Let’s say you’re applying for a sales job. They want you to have 3 years of experience, but you only have 1 year of experience. You can explain to them the measurable results that you’ve achieved working on company’s projects. If you’ve worked for yourself, you can show them the results you’ve achieved there and it sets you apart as a go-getter.

You don’t come off as confident

Interviews are a challenge for anybody that doesn’t have the best personal speaking skills. You are probably as conversational as can be when around people you’ve known for a while. You might even be confident at an event surrounded by people you haven’t met.

In the interview room, that doesn’t matter. It all comes back to them wanting to hire someone that will get them results. If you go in there with your palms sweaty, knees weak, and arms heavy then you know what you need to work on next time to land the job.

The key here is practice. The best practice possible is in the situation you’re practicing for, so having multiple interviews would get you comfortable doing interviews. If you’re not able to do that, you can just practice in front of a mirror or with a friend. Don’t write down answers and try to memorize them, though. That’ll get you dependent on those specific questions. If they ask different questions then you’ll be nervous because you didn’t prepare for them. Just practice and get used to the feeling of interviewing.

You come off as entitled

There’s a line between confident and arrogant. You need to show the employer that you’re able to do the job, but don’t act as if you are entitled to have that job.

These are some things to think about if you’re not having luck getting the job you want. Now that you have an idea of the mistakes you may be making, take it upon yourself to learn from those mistakes. It’s on you to change your situation.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing www.webuildstaffing.com . To learn more about Michael or to follow his blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Make a Dynamic First Impression During Your Job Interview

Making a great first impression when you walk in for a job interview is critical. Your interviewer is already forming their opinion of you from the moment you walk through the door–and how you present yourself will have a substantial impact on whether or not you’re hired. If you want to make a dynamic first impression at your next job interview, these tips will help.

Practice what you want to say. Be prepared for some of the questions that are most likely to be asked in an interview and take the time to practice your answers to them. This will help increase your confidence, which means that you’ll portray yourself as a more capable candidate. It will also allow you to prepare the answers you know employers are looking for.

Customize your portfolio. Take a minute to look through your portfolio before you go in for an interview. Bring the projects that are the most relevant to the position or company you’re applying for to the front. Whether you’re an engineer with a portfolio full of blueprints or a construction worker with specialized skills, make sure you’re showing off the skills your future employer wants to see the most.

Dress to impress. Show up in clothing that is appropriate and professional. Common advice is to show up in an outfit one step more formal than what you’ll be wearing every day, but if you don’t have more formal attire, your daily job attire will suffice. Some tips to keep in mind:

Try not to choose a new outfit that you’ve worn for the first time for your interview. You need to know how your clothing will look after a car ride and sitting waiting.
Sit down in your outfit and check it again. Slump, which you’ll likely do at some point during the interview whether you mean to or not. Check to make sure that you’re not showing too much cleavage or having trouble with button gaps.
Choose practical shoes. You never know when you’ll walk straight out of the interview room for a tour of the office or, worse, a tour of a job site. The last thing you want is to hold up a tour because your shoes don’t fit right or they’re pinching your toes!

Show up at the right time. It’s not just about showing up on time for your interview. It’s also about not showing up too early: interviewers would prefer that you show up within five to ten minutes of your interview time instead of coming through the door when they’re in the middle of taking care of another task.

Go in with a positive attitude. Be positive about the job, yourself, and your previous place of employment. Interviewers want to see candidates who know their strengths, know that they’re a good fit for the job, and are eager to dive in. It’s okay if your nerves show–everyone gets a little nervous before an interview–but if you go in with a positive attitude, it will help smooth over a lot of awkward moments.

Check yourself before you go in. Take the time to visit the restroom and wash and dry your hands. Make sure you have a firm, assured handshake. If you must wear perfume or cologne, keep it minimal: you have no idea what allergies or personal preferences you might face during your interview. Dispose of your trash, whether it’s the paper cup from coffee or a last-minute snack, before you go in. These last-minute details might not matter in the big scheme of things, but they can make a big difference in your first impression!

Your interview starts in the lobby. No, the receptionist isn’t the hiring manager, but that doesn’t mean that you don’t want to give them a great impression. In fact, some hiring managers will ask the receptionist how candidates behaved! Be polite, keep your phone in your pocket and turned to silent where it belongs, and be attentive to what’s going on around you. These simple steps can have a big impact on the image you present to your interviewer.

When you walk through the door for a job interview, you want to present yourself in the best light possible. These simple steps can make a big difference in the way the interviewer sees you–and that makes it much more likely that you’ll get the job you’re dreaming of.

How to Effectively Prepare for a Video Interview

In a digital era where the world revolves around technology than ever before, more businesses are leveraging videos in their recruiting and hiring process to save time and increase productivity. Whether it’s in the construction, engineering, or environmental industry, video interviews is a winning move for companies and interviewees alike as each are able to determine whether the choice is a good fit efficiently.

Yet, just because it’s a video interview doesn’t make it less nerve wrecking or easier on your part. Preparation is vital in order to land the job of your dream particularly if this video interview is the gateway. Ensuring you’re ready in advanced positions you to win so you’re confident in your delivery and make an amazing impression with your potential employer.

Here are 5 effective tips on how to prepare for a video interview.

#1 Practice Makes Perfect!

Just as you would for an in-person interview, it’s important to go over likely questions that will be asked so you respond with conviction and belief. You see, the more you go over your answers, the poised and certain you’ll be during the interview. You’ll clearly highlight your skills and knowledge in a way that’s concise yet still showcases your expertise for the job. You also won’t fumble over your words nor get too long-winded in your response.

So we can agree that practice makes perfect. Spend the time going over common interview questions and your answers so you’re adequately prepared. Say them aloud as if you’re speaking directly to the interviewer. Review your resume to fluently share your experiences that relate to the position.

Finally, research the company and their goals. Understand their mission and the capacity in which they serve their clients. When doing so, you’ll identify how you can fit into their vision and communicate this during the video interview.

#2 Check Your Background

The surrounding area behind you can either add to your video interview or become a distraction. Be mindful of what’s behind you so it doesn’t detract or interfere with your answers. Here are a few guidelines to making sure you’re setting up your background for success:

Refrain from going to a coffee shop where it can get noisy during peak hours
Let your household know that you’re doing an interview and it’s imperative that they’re quiet and in another room. Try not to have people walking behind you in the video interview
An office setting is perfect or the kitchen. Be sure that it’s nice and neat in the background
If you opt for the desk in the bedroom, make it tidy with the bed made, clothes off the floor, etc.
Have adequate lighting by putting a light behind your computer so your face is illuminated. Avoid dark areas that could make it difficult to see your or casts shadows on your face

#3 Have Good Posture and Poise

Great posture emanates confidence and enthusiasm for the subject matter. Practice keeping your spine straight with your shoulders slightly pulled back for an upright posture. This position also helps your breathing which is a key factor in relieving any nervousness experienced during the video interview.

Another tip to bolstering your posture and poise is talking with your hands, however, don’t overdo it. Use them as a tool to help release any nervous energy or show your interest while answering a question.

#4 Perform a Test Run

From Skype to Google Hangouts, GoToWebinar and Zoom, there are several options employers can choose as their video technology for the interview. It’s important to test the software in advance to ensure its working properly.

For example, some applications may need to be downloaded prior to the interview if you don’t already have them installed on your computer. Avoid waiting until the day of to discover if your device is equipped or not. Know the software that will be used and perform a test run 1-2 days before the interview so you’re ready!

If possible, test it with a friend on the software that you’ll be using. Get their feedback on the lighting, surrounding background and your posture.

#5 Be Yourself!

People are seeking authenticity and transparency in an age where communication is often conveyed through technology. Allow the interviewer to experience your true personality, showing how you’ll be a real asset to the team. Don’t be afraid to exude passion and zeal for the position you’re after. Be yourself…that’s what they’re looking for!

When talking, be sure to look directly into the camera. This is equivalent to making eye contact in-person which reveals confidence and character.

Conclusion

Preparing for a video interview does not have to be a daunting task. By implementing these tips, you will create an environment for success to boost your interview performance and land you the job you desire in the construction, engineering, or environmental industry.

What’s Coming Between You and the Job of Your Dreams? Answer: Nothing!

What’s coming between you and the job of your dreams? The answer is not the same as the problems, and every problem gets solved, somehow, sooner or later. For those in the construction, engineering, or environmental fields, the answer to this age-old question comes in many ways. You may not have enough experience, or training, or limited opportunities in your area (relocation is necessary sometimes). No issue has to hold you back. If you really do give it your all, and you have the right attitude, overcoming the many obstacles is just another part of the job.

Many people have dreams, and usually the ones who face the challenges and concentrate on what needs doing to meet them come up with a plan. Planning the dream career involves taking an honest look at where you have strengths and weaknesses, and what you can do become stronger and compensate for issues (everyone has some kind of area than can use improvement). Yet planning your way will only prepare the journey ahead. You have to meet everyday with the same resolution and focus.

Becoming disciplined and skilled is key to your success. Without a relentless drive, your dreams will elude you. Watch others and pick up from what successful people do, many people find this type of inspiration invaluable! Things you can do include finding the right training and work to position you in the future for the ideal job. This is one way; building your resume and finding out what people do to get in the positions you seek are doing are essential.

Talk to people who have those jobs, find out what they did personally. If you want to follow your dreams that’s one thing, if you are willing to do what it takes and follow-through, that’s entirely another. Self-esteem and confidence building are real ways you can improve your outlook. In many ways it all comes down to attitude in life. You may have heard this before, but a good attitude means the difference between loving what you do and hating it. And, that’s also entirely up to you.

A dream job is possible if you exude the kind of dedication employers are really looking for. You have to appreciate everything about having work, about having opportunity, and about life. Gaining a good philosophy to work from, and good work ethics will lead you in the right direction. Above all, taking all chances to improve, and maintaining your health and state of mind will improve any chances you get, along with these other elements.

No one likes office politics too much, there are all kinds of ways to handle situations on the job that create conflict that you may have not thought of. Attitude and professionalism will get noticed by employers. Even if you have had problem times, or a bad attitude in the past, using these suggestions and taking each day as it comes, while continuously improving all areas of your performance, skills, training, and the chances that you can find your way to your dream job will be greatly increased.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing www.webuildstaffing.com. To learn more about Michael or to follow his blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

What You Should Know About Hiring Millennials

In the construction industry, it will very often be necessary to hire within the generation known as millennials: the ones who grew up being told they could do anything, with social media always by their sides–they’re from a different world than other generations, and they bring an entirely new perspective and attitude to the workplace. To properly choose the employees that you know will succeed, and to further motivate them, here’s what you should know about hiring millennials:

They’re intrinsically motivated. This means that millennials care less about rewards than you may think: they want purpose, they want positive feedback, and they want to grow in their careers. This means you’ll need to be aware of your management; criticism should be constructive, and praise should be offered any time you see great work. For hiring, this means you should stress the opportunities for growth that are available, and if possible, offer a mentorship program. Flexibility in hours is difficult in construction, but if you can offer any, make sure it’s known in the hiring process, as millennials place importance on this, too.

They’re idealistic. This means they may job hop until they find a situation that benefits them best for their goals. But it also means (and this is important) if they care about the job they have with you, they’ll want to make a difference in the workforce. You’ll want to show them how you’re contributing to the local area’s entire lifestyle–and as millennials can tend to be more in tune with technology, and less with labor, be sure to give them the time and flexibility to discover which role within your construction company may provide the best fit. You may even find that if you hire the right fit for your company, a truly motivated person, they’ll start finding ways to improve business you never thought of.

They can tend to be individualistic. (Meaning, not team players–which is not always great news for the construction industry.) How do you find the millennial you can mold and fit to the team? For one, hire for skills rather than personality. If the millennial you hire is suited more to your construction opening, then they’ll be more likely to want to stick around and to fit with the team. That being said, millennials are motivated by great work and great people. Surround them by an appropriate team and with good mentorship, and you’ll find a vast difference in their growth with you.

Hiring millennials will become increasingly important for you in the construction industry, so it’s very valuable to understand this generation’s needs and motivations. With the right approach, millennials with your construction company could make a wonderful difference and help your organization succeed.

Tough Job Interview Questions You Should Ask Of Potential Employers…

When interviewing for managerial or professional jobs within the construction, engineering or environmental industries, it’s important to establish a positive rapport with the individual you are interview with.

You need to show that you will be able to work well with others within the firm, discuss your skills and qualifications as related to the position you are applying for, as well as, ask the interviewer a number of questions related to the organization and position you are discussing.

By following these nine suggested questions; although tough ones, they will convey that you have confidence, desire and skills to tackle the challenges of the job successfully.

1. “Why did you choose this company?”
Whether this is a construction, engineering or environmental job, you will want to know more about the particulars of the company making sure it would be a good fit for you. Ask your interviewer about their management style. Will you be managing employees who engage in collaboration or work more individually? Probe a little deeper and inquire whether the interviewer feels excited about his work.

2.. “How would I exceed your expectations on a short-term basis, say, in the first 30 to 60 days on the job?”
By asking this question, you are conveying to your interviewer that you have every intention of showing resourcefulness in approaching your job responsibilities from your first day.

3. “What qualities do your best employees have?”
With this question, you should find out what attributes you need to develop in order to be highly valued in the organization. Are you willing to go the extra mile, show initiative, or collaborate with others? You can ask yourself if you fit into this organization.

4. “Can I clarify any information about my background, former careers or skills?”
This is a bold question to ask, but it will give you an opportunity to discover concerns that your interviewer has about your fitness to do the job. If some of his comments are negative, this gives you the opportunity to clarify some parts of the interview or your resume.

5. “Are there opportunities for professional training and education, mainly in new technology?”
Asking this question will show the interviewer that you are willing to extend yourself and improve your skills by taking training classes and/or obtaining certifications

6. “Does this company encourage entrepreneurial-type projects?”
Employees who are given the opportunity and flexibility to work on projects with limited supervision are generally happier in their jobs.

7. “What types of mentoring programs do you offer?”
You might mention the idea of reverse mentoring – older employees help younger ones with skills like organization and in turn, younger ones can help older employees with technical skills. This also shows you are content having a younger boss.

8. “Is there an option to do contract or consulting work?”
This question would be a particularly good one. Demonstrating your abilities on a project or contract basis will allow you to show you are skilled in performing the work required and allow you to potentially work less hours and probably make more money.

9. “What’s the salary range for this position?”
Asking direct questions about salary, benefits, retirement plans and vacation on a first interview seems a bit brazen, but if done in a subtle way, you can get a general idea.

As you begin to leave the interview, give a firm handshake and show strong body language by using eye contact. Stand and walk straight and tall showing confidence. Don’t forget to write a thank-you note, preferably by hand.

Involuntary Hiring Biases

Even in today’s cultivated society, hiring biases are everywhere. Women make up only 2.6 percent of the construction industry, says the National Women’s Law Center. This number has barely changed over the last 30 years. In addition to gender discrimination, Age discrimination is a problem in the engineering and tech industries; loaded job offers that call for “new grads” ensure this.

To make things worse, studies show that many hiring biases may be unintentional or superficially benevolent. This is no excuse, however; the legendary author C.S. Lewis put it best when he said that “tyranny exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive.” From gender and ethnic discrimination to the lesser-known “affinity bias”, here are three of the most prominent involuntary hiring biases in the workplace.

People are drawn to people like themselves. It’s a fact of life. This can manifest in a ton of ways. Say, for instance, a manager who roots for Chicago sports teams finds out that his interviewee is a fan of the Bulls. “Well, that’s great,” thinks the manager. “They’ve got good taste!” The manager takes a liking to the interviewee, and will likely unconsciously form positive opinions about the candidate throughout the interview and may even aid them with trickier questions.

On the other hand, imagine the same manager interviewing a candidate with a haircut he doesn’t like. Right off the bat, the manager makes silent judgment calls that even he doesn’t notice. The interview goes poorly in the manager’s eyes; in his mind, the candidate shouldn’t have even shown up.

This is the “affinity bias”. People work with those they like, and reject those they don’t like; it’s a fact of living. In the business world, however, this is completely unacceptable. Imagine a construction company where the majority of the employees had the same experiences, lifestyle, likes and dislikes as the manager. That company will stagnate almost instantly.

The second most dangerous hiring bias is the age-old albatross known as discrimination. For instance, it’s commonly thought that men are better at math than women, and Indians are better at math than most other ethnic groups. Naturally, the best mathematicians and engineers are Indian males, right? Readers will note that this thinking is patently ridiculous. It is also, sadly, common.

Rounding out the three most prominent involuntary hiring biases is simple self-preservation. Managers naturally fear losing their jobs and thus get wary of hiring anyone who could threaten their position. A particularly competent candidate could do a great job, sure, but where would that leave the manager? So the manager decides to look for someone slightly less qualified.

To combat these biases companies have adopted practices much like the “blind auditions”. Here, the candidate interviews with a number of interviewers from behind a screen so that those hiring do not know who they are interviewing. This has resulted in more people getting accepted for roles that may have been disregarded due to an “affinity bias” This could go a long way towards solidifying diversity in the business world.

Tips For Interviewing The Interviewer; To Make The Best Impression

Interviewing is not easy and searching for the job in the construction, engineering and environmental industries is difficult enough on its own.

Interviews are almost like first dates where you are being challenged and judged by the organization you are interviewing with. Most job candidates do not realize though that they have more power than they think in an interview situation.

There is a lack of highly qualified professionals today in the construction, engineering and environmental industries and the truth is that you are also interviewing the organization just as much as they are interviewing you. Is this a company you actually want to work for as a civil engineer? Is this the ideal environment for a biologist? What would be your career path within the organization to achieve your goals?

Having the basic realization that your voice matters in an interview can empower you to take control of your career and find an opportunity that fulfills your career expectations. You are on a mission, after all to find the best job that suits your career needs.

By keeping these basic tips in mind as you interview it will help you find the best job for your career..:

Demonstrate Your Desire To Stick Around…

The interviewer is most likely swamped, wanting to fill open position quickly with qualified personnel. This is especially the case if you are applying for a position with ongoing projects that require immediate leadership and technical expertise. Hiring managers want to know that you are somebody they will not be seeking a replacement for in three months, especially if you are undertaking a major construction project for the company.

Demonstrate Your Institutional Knowledge…

Do your research ahead of time and demonstrate to the interviewer that you are aware of how they operate. Show that you understand their projects and marketplace. You may even want do some research to gain an understanding of their existing projects. Make yourself aware of their competitors and past accomplishments; so that you are ready to ask intelligent questions about the organization and their future growth plans.

Ask Questions..

Asking questions demonstrates interest. Feel free to ask if the position you are interviewing for is new or if there has been another employee working in the role? What projects you would have responsibilities for? Ask the Interviewer their thoughts on the position? Just make sure that you are asking professional questions that will give the employer a favorable impression, as well as, lead you to make a good choice in accepting a position with an employer for your career success.

Take Advantage Of Opportunities To Meet Staff Members…

If you are asked to meet other members of the team, jump on the opportunity. Not only will you be able to see if you are a good fit with other team members, but you can also ask other questions about work-life balance and each employees professional backgrounds and expertise.

Be Aware Of Red Flags..

Look for deal-breakers as you interview including difficult managers, odd personalities, lack of long term work or an uncomfortable workplace. Ultimately, it is important that you trust your instincts and look for work environments that suit your needs.

Just remember: even if your interview does not lead to a new career opportunity, you have gained great experience for the next interview. It will allow you to create a helpful set of skills that will aid you in the future.

1% Makes All the Difference..

1% Makes All the Difference…

For even the most well-qualified job seekers, the search for a new job can be time-consuming and exhausting. After all, there are numerous qualified candidates that you must compete against in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. More than that, it can be emotionally exhausting, and you likely will face many closed doors and missed opportunities before you finally find a job in your field.

Many job seekers feel frustrated and let down when they do not see a positive result from their efforts, and others may simply settle with the fact that they put forth some effort to find a job today. When it comes to looking for a job in a competitive industry such as this, a different approach is needed

Those who follow the one-percent rule and put forth a little extra effort may ultimately enjoy better results from their efforts.

How the One-Percent Rule Relates to Your Job Search

The one-percent rule generally states that you can give that extra little bit of effort, or you can settle for less than you could possibly be doing. Many job seekers will settle for one-percent less when searching for a job. For example, they may not customize their resume and cover letter so that they are tailored specifically for the job they are applying for. They may state that they put in a full day’s work looking for new job openings, so they may not continue to look for a job in the evening. Perhaps they will skip an important networking event or job fair because they are tired from looking at job listings all day. However, this extra bit of effort that you exert may be the effort that makes all the difference in helping you to land a job days, weeks or even months sooner than you otherwise would.

Applying the Rule to Your Job Interviews

Likewise, the one-percent rule can be applied to your job interviews, and this applies to whether you are applying for a construction foreman position, a structural engineering desk job or any other position. Will you review interview questions and ask a friend to help you with a mock interview scenario? During the interview, will you act positive and excited about the job, or will you act like you have already been on a dozen interviews and are disillusioned with the job seeking process? After the interview is over, will you wait for the phone to ring, or will you send an email to the interviewer to thank him or her for their time and to express your sincere interest in the job after learning more about it at the interview? There are many small things that you can do that can go a long way toward helping you to differentiate yourself from other job seekers who you are competing with, and it is this extra little effort on your part that ultimately may help you to land the job in you want in your field.

Job seeking can certainly be frustrating, and this may even more true when you are looking for a position in a competitive industry like engineering, construction or other related industries. It is easy to lose motivation and to get discouraged. You will likely face many closed doors before you find that one door that is open and ready for you to walk through it. Each day of your job search, ask yourself what you can do to make that extra one-percent of difference, and you may find that this effort will make all the difference.

New Graduate? Tips For Interviewing For Your First Engineering Job

New Graduate? Tips For Interviewing For Your First Engineering Job..

If you are interviewing for a position in the engineering field, it is vital that you stand out from other candidates in order to obtain a position. While your degree and experiences may be sufficient to secure meeting with an HR representative at the company in question, you are likely to have plenty of competition.

When you have obtained a call back or possibly even before, learn more about the company. Go to their website and discover the principles on which it was founded, by whom, and when. See if you are able to find a few interesting facts that will show why you are interested in the company. For example, perhaps the business was involved in a project for which you have a great deal of professional respect.

Make certain that your attire is appropriate for the interview. Because it is a professional position, going in dressed for “casual Friday” is inappropriate. Have your clothing ready beforehand and take an honest assessment in the mirror of your appearance. Hair, including facial, nails and the rest of you should be well groomed. Polish your shoes. The few extra minutes that this requires may provide you an edge in making a good first impression.

Additionally, be prepared for the types of questions that are likely to be presented to you during the interview. One example is they may inquire about what types of special skills or knowledge you may have obtained from internships or part-time employment from previous employment. As you are recently graduated from school, with little work experience in the field, offer an example related to your scholastic experience and how you were able to assist a classmate.

Alternatively, they may ask about what you have learned from a previous mistake. Attempting to gloss over information or pretend as though you have never made an error will make you appear disingenuous, which could cost you the second interview, or the position altogether. However, if you can briefly summarize what you did wrong while expressing what you learned, you will show honesty and the ability to learn two skills that your interviewer will be searching for.

Proper preparation is essential to having a successful interview. If you know about the company and present yourself professionally, you are off to an excellent start. Be prepared to field a variety of questions regarding your experience and educational history. Contemplate the work you have completed in the past prior to the interview. This will help you in delivering honest answers that exhibit your skills in the engineering field.

Nerves Be Gone: How to Succeed In A Panel Interview Setting

Nerves Be Gone: How to Succeed In A Panel Interview Setting

Preparing for an interview can be a nerve-racking experience for even the most seasoned professionals. Imagine, however, getting a call from a prospective employer requesting that you interview with several different managers– in a panel style setting.

The visions of sitting across from a handful of high-powered executives shooting rapid fire questions at you start to dance through your mind. You might begin to wonder how to succeed in a panel interview setting and avoid succumbing to the pressure. Just like in a traditional interview setting, preparation is key. Below we will discuss some tips for a successful panel interview:

Research the company. Know the company you’re meeting with inside and out. Research their services and their project portfolio. Grab a company brochure and visit their website. Familiarize yourself with industry lingo.Dress for success. Even if you’re applying for a role that will require you to visit rough or dirty places, a good rule of thumb is to dress as you would if you were visiting an important client.

Research the panelists. Know who you’re going to be meeting with and what their roles are in the company. That way, you can prepare yourself for what types of questions might be asked. Check out their bios on the company website. Look them up on LinkedIn. Avoid putting yourself in the position of being interviewed by a panel of people that you know absolutely nothing about.

Engage each panelist. Before the interview begins, introduce yourself to each person on the panel. Collect business cards to help you remember their names. If cards aren’t available, jot their names down on your notepad in the order that they’re seated. During the interview, address each panelist by name. Make eye contact with everyone– even when you’re answering another panelists’ question.

Showcase your adaptability. Discuss achievements that are relevant to the position at hand. Give examples of your own work, but relate it to what they build.

Connect questions. Referencing another panelists’ question when answering a new question shows that you’re an active listener who can make connections. It also allows you to reuse strong points from a previous answer and serves to draw the other panelists into the conversation.

Ask your own questions. Asking the panelists questions of your own shows that you’re interested and engaged in the process. Consider questions like, “What do you think makes someone a successful project manager at this company?”

Follow up with everyone. Sure, it’s a little bit of extra work, but it’s worth the effort. Reach out to each panelist to thank them specifically for meeting with you. Make sure to personalize each note.

Finally, remember that panel interviews aren’t an attempt at intimidation. In fact, most companies simply use them as a time-saving tactic. Rather than viewing them as a distressing experience, consider panel interviews an opportunity to showcase your unique strengths to several influential managers at one time.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing www.webuildstaffing.com To learn more about Michael or to follow his blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

What Your Clothes Say About You…

What To Wear For An Interview

What Your Clothes Say About You…

Making the right first impression is the most important thing you can do in an interview.

One of the first things a hiring manager will notice and judge you on is your level of professionalism, confidence and strict attention to detail which is most clearly demonstrated in your choice of clothing. This first impression sets the tone for the meeting as a whole and will guide the nature of the conversation and questions for the duration of the interview.

The National Association of Colleges and Employers conducted a survey and indicated that over 49 percent of hiring decisions are influenced by what the candidate wears. Your knowledge, experience and professionalism should be foremost in an employer’s mind, but we are only human and visually oriented individuals; so preparing your professional attire ahead of time for the interview is of prime importance.

Prepare for the interview with your career goals in mind. Whether you are an architect, civil engineer or construction manager, start the process off with the goal of making a great first impression. It shows planning, dedication and reliability. Research the organization, company culture and typical attire employees wear within their organizations. This will provide you some guidance as to what to wear for your interview. By dressing to match a corporate culture this will create a common ground for the rest of the meeting. Your choices also will show your level of professionalism and seriousness regarding your future in the company.

Skilled, knowledgeable employees are essential to growing and maintaining a reputable, profitable business. Convince them you possess these abilities and their organization will benefit. Slacks and a blouse or nice shirt indicate you are willing to solve problems and tackle the job. This will allow them to imagine you in the job engineering and supervising their projects to completion.

Arrive to your interview with polished shoes, pressed attire and a positive attitude. It displays your professionalism and will come across significantly during a person to person meeting. Should you desire to dress formally, choose an appropriate suit or dress; Confidence and value is of importance; peers, managers and supervisors all notice the littlest details.

Myjobhelper.com has a handy graphic that displays what to wear for an interview when you are in doubt.

Professionally minded individuals, who dress appropriately and have the experience allows you standout in a crowded pool of applicants. Whether the interview is in person or through Skype, the right attire controls the first and last impression you make; so present yourself with professionalism and confidence.

What’s Your Greatest Strength / Weakness? Can You Answer This Question Effectively..

How To Answer Interview Questions

What’s Your Greatest Strength / Weakness? Can You Answer This Question Effectively..

“What’s Your Greatest Strength / Weakness?” Learn How To Answer This Question..

Let’s face it. Searching for a new job is tough. Preparing for the interview is tougher. Here are some tips on how to answer the question, “What’s your greatest strength / weakness?”. It may be simpler than you think.

“What’s your greatest strength?”

This may be one of the easier questions you’ll be asked during an interview and gives you the opportunity to showcase some of your career accomplishments.

A great way to respond to this question is to highlight one or two of your attributes that directly relates to the position you are applying for and/or project work you have done in the past. Do you work well under pressure? Do you manage people well? Maybe you’re a great communicator, an amazing problem solver or have an extraordinary gift for keeping projects on time and under budget.

When answering this question you should utilize examples from your past, projects you completed, tasked you accomplished. A few examples include, “When I was working on the Transamerica project, I kept the lines of communication open regarding the project’s progress with my superiors, as well as, the onsite trades;” or “I strived to ensure all safety rules and regulations were being observed and the governmental regulators saw our dedication to safety on this project..” Stressing your strengths by providing examples in practical real life applications will allow the interviewer to see your skills in practical terms.

“What is your greatest weakness?”

When asked the question “what you greatest weakness..”, there are three approaches you can take to answer this question effectively: mention skills that are not critical to the job you are interviewing for, explain skills you have improved upon and/or describe how you turned a negative situation into a positive one utilizing existing skills and your abilities to grow as a professional.

By analyzing the key skills and strengths of the position, you can discuss one of your honest shortcomings that is not essential to success in the job. Maybe you’re a workaholic or find it difficult to sit idle for long periods of time; weaknesses that could appear as self-motivation and determination to a prospective employer could provide you the edge you are seeking in obtaining the position.

Another approach is to address a weakness you have improved upon in your current / previous position. By outlining the steps you took to advance the skill from its basic function to your current level of efficiency will show an interviewer that you have the ability to adapt and grow as a professional.

If you struggle with self-organization, the interviewer will be interested in hearing how you make full use of your smartphone planning app or are able to multitask if necessary. However, it’s important that you do not select a weakness that’s a key requirement for the position, so as to not cast doubt on your qualifications for the job.

A third option is to describe how you turned a negative into a positive. For instance, your tendency to expect too much of your co-workers is mitigated by holding regular, informal meetings to discuss progress of the project and where expectations are clarified to everyone in the organization Utilize real time examples on how your weakness allowed you to grow as a professional and achieve success, by recognizing your shortcoming and working to overcome them effectively.

The key to successfully answering tough questions such as these is to stay positive and focus on the attributes and qualifications you can bring to the organization that will lead to successful growth or your own career, as well as, the organization you are interviewing with. .

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com ). To learn more about Michael or to follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Advice For College Students – Set Up A Plan For Your Career…

College Graduates Ready For Career Search

Advice For College Students – Set Up A Plan For Your Career…

As a recent construction, engineering or environmental sciences graduate looking for a career opportunity upon graduation you may find the employment landscape a very challenging environment.

Employers today are receiving volumes of applications both online and in person for every open position they have within their organization. These are from experienced job seekers, as well as entry level graduates with little experience leaving the competition for jobs quite competitive especially in the construction, engineering and environmental industry. Some of the countries hardest hit industries in this last economic down turn.

As a college student approaching graduation a little planning for the future will go a long way in making sure your job prospects are plentiful upon graduation.

Plan For Your Career:

You have selected your profession and are working towards your degree, but a degree in today’s marketplace is not always enough now. Employers today want a well-rounded employee with experience in the industry, excellent written and verbal communication skills and the drive to work hard and excel.

It is vital to network with your professors, join professional trade organizations, attend seminars, and to volunteer with companies to gain experience and make connections in your chosen industry.

Obtain Internships:

One of the greatest ways to accomplish your goals while in school is through an internship. Don’t wait until the last year of college to do this, but rather begin interning by your junior year, if not earlier. This will allow you to gain the experience you need, make professional contacts, and discover what professional specialties you enjoy working in.

The internship, even if you are not being paid, is the best way to obtain full-time employment upon graduation. Employers retain interns that enjoy learning, are positive, upbeat and work hard. 90% of the time employers will employ the intern on a full-time basis upon graduation; granted they have demonstrated their value during the internship.

If nothing less, you will be exposed to many construction, engineering and environmental projects, professionals, and skills that could not be obtained in a classroom setting. Internships allow you to gain the valuable experience employers are seeking in recent graduates and you will always want to make sure to ask for recommendations from your supervisors upon completion of an internship.

Be Prepared For Your Job Search:

Conducting a job search is a challenging endeavor, especially for a recent graduate who is venturing out to the workforce for the first time.

(1) You must have a professionally written resume outlining your skills, qualifications and experience, as well as recommendation letters from past professors and/or employers.

(2) You must be polished – clean up your act, review your social media accounts and remove unflattering posts, tweets, etc. You should set up a professional LinkedIn profile and make sure you have professional attire (ie, suit, dress, etc.) not just for your interview but for the first few weeks of employment. Additionally make sure you are professionally groomed (ie.hair cut, nails, etc.).

(3) Practice interviewing. Review your resume, practice answering the most common interview questions employers ask, role-play with friends, professors and/or classmates to get comfortable with talking about yourself and answering questions that you may not be accustomed to answering. Make sure to obtain their feedback about your answers to polish you responses.

Additionally, you may want to attend interviewing seminars at your college’s career services department or buy a book or two on how to interview to get a general idea of what to expect in an interview setting.

(4) Research the companies that you may have an interview with before going into the interview. Learn what the company does, their projects, products, industry focus, who is working there, the background of the person you are interviewing with, and anything else that may pertain to the interview or company. It will greatly enhance the interviewer’s perception of you during the interview if you understand the company and ask relevant questions pertaining to the job.

A little planning for your construction, engineering or environmental career will go a long way towards successful employment after graduation.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or to follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

5 Traits Employers Really Seek In New Employees

When it comes to hiring employees, employers are searching for individuals that exhibit the skills and experience required to get the job done, but they also are searching for individuals that have something else.

The drive, pride, commitment and integrity to an organization that is inherent in people that have historically shown to be the highest performers within a candidate pool.

When employers see these traits within a candidate; these individuals are usually moved to the top of the stack when it comes to making a hiring decision.

So as an individual who may be searching for your next career opportunity; you may want to keep the following in mind when you are interviewing for your next job.

Drive / Hard Work Ethic

Do you learn things quickly? Have the intelligence to grasp concepts and ideas in a relevant way and focus them on the business at hand?

Understanding that experience may not be the only factor in an employer’s hiring decision, but rather they are looking for motivated employees that can do the job, are intelligent and can learn quickly.

The experience factor is important, but the understanding of the business model, your abilities to look ahead and anticipate things is of even greater importance. The drive to excel, learn and succeed is what an employer strives to find in a candidate.

Pride In The Job

Do you take pride in everything you do? Contribute to the team? Take ownership of your work? Come up with new ideas? Not make excuses?

Your job performance needs to be important to you; working hard, accomplishing tasks, striving for success and taking pride in the fact that you accomplished things is of great importance to an employer.

Demonstrating to an employer your drive, but also the pride you hold in the organization, your work and the accomplishments you have made shows a higher level of commitment as an employee that wants to do a good job and succeed.

Commitment To Organization

Are you committed to the job? Do you want to being working in this profession or are you just there for the money?

The most successful employees are the ones that truly believe they are making an impact in their chosen profession and enjoy the work that they do. Simply showing up every day and doing what is required in today job market is not going to cut it for long and you will find yourself looking for a new job rather quickly.

Candidates need to demonstrate their enjoyment for their profession and the work they are doing. Focusing on your accomplishments, ideas, and knowledge of the industry will greatly enhance an employer’s view of your commitment to the job.

Integrity

If you found a $100.00 bill on the ground; would you pick it up and put it in your pocket or try to find the person who dropped it?

Integrity is a hard thing to demonstrate in an interview setting; but integrity in daily life is easy. Holding yourself to a higher standard in your personal life, as well as, in your professional career and exhibiting that in everything you do demonstrates all the traits an employer seeks. The pride, work ethic, commitment all shine through with your integrity.

This is something you do not have to demonstrate in an interview, but it will naturally come through based on your past actions and job performance.

By keeping the above traits in mind when conducting a job search, will aid you greatly in accomplishing your goal of obtaining your next exceptional career opportunity.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or to follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Are You An Effective Communicator? You Need To Be For Your Job Search.

It is no secret that some of the most successful people in a business environment have learned the art of effective communication. They have perfected their abilities to communicate in a sincere and authentic manner that inspires others to follow. Many have found that business communication is all about how you use verbal, non-verbal and written mediums to communicate in a clear and credible way.

During your job search, the ability to communicate you qualifications, skills accomplishments, goals and career objectives even becomes more important in obtaining your next career opportunity.

Communication is all about establishing trust, communicating in a simple, concise way that allows you to find your own voice and communicate your vision to others while understanding their position.

Establishing trust is the cornerstone of all communication. Your actions and behavior must be in line with the words you speak. If your previous career activities do not align with what you are communicating in the words you are speaking or have written on your resume that trust level will be broken.

Many have found that finding your voice; developing your personal story or brand is an effective way to communicate with hiring managers and executives during an interview. Take some time to develop your story, review you resume, think about your accomplishments and practice communicating it in a simple and clear manner.

Find a voice that is distinctly your own and let your values show through your communication. People like and respect individuals that are “Real”. Do not get caught up in the corporate environment. Keeping your message simple, positive and concise will allow you to communicate your story, qualifications and skills effectively during your job search.

Listen! Listen! Listen!! Do not just talk, listen to what others are saying, and process that information before talking. The art of communication is a two way process. The best communicators are the best listeners. Listen with your eyes and ears. Look at verbal cues as well as physical actions before responding to questions. Ask pertinent and quality, open ended questions that show your genuine interest in the conversation and the opportunity it may lead to.

Understand that your attitude, personality and ability to communicate all go hand in hand. Communication is a two way street that you need to be prepared for. The best communicators are the ones that practice it every day.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com ). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Searching For a Job? Ways To Stay Positive And Have A Productive Job Search

It has been shown through various studies that unemployment has the ability to affect ones mental and emotional health. Serious conditions such as an anxiety, depression, and insomnia are common trends seen in unemployed professionals while they are seeking new employment.

In today’s marketplace it is estimated that the average job search takes approximately 30 to 40 weeks of active job searching to find your next career opportunity. Over this period of time many professionals feel like they are losing their professional identity, self-confidence and sense of security as the job search progresses.

Going on interview after interview; with no job offers can bring anyone’s self-esteem down. Human resources and hiring managers are very keen individuals and they can recognize when an individual who is interviewing with them is struggling or depressed. This has a strong impact on your chances of obtaining your next career opportunity. Having a strong support network and coping mechanisms in place that you can rely on will aide you greatly in keeping positive and making the right impression on job interviews.

Find A Group Of Trusted Advisers

When you are searching for a job you may feel alienated from the rest of the world. It is important to not cut yourself off from the business community. Developing relationships with like mind professionals; individuals you have worked with in the past, civic leaders, people you respect and trust will allow you to stay up to date and connected. It will also allow you to communicate your thoughts or ask for advice as you progress through the hurdles in your job search.

Volunteer To Work With A Non-Profit

Going from working 40 hours a week to sitting at home all day can greatly impact your self-esteem. There were many reasons you worked, the since of accomplishment, the pride of the job you were doing, the people you were helping, etc.. All of which can be recaptured by working for a non-profit, even if you are not being paid. It will also allow you to network with business leaders provide you a sense of daily purpose and greatly improve your emotional outlook as you search for a job.

Be Positive

Projecting a sense of positivity and showing a sense of purpose will greatly aide you job search and interviewing success. Individuals that are depressed or downbeat typically drive employers away from hiring them. You want to demonstrate in your life a positive sense of purpose.

There are many ways to do this, but the most effective is reflecting on your past accomplishments, your skills, and abilities, family life. You need to remember that you can provide a valuable contribution to any organization. You past employer saw this, that why they hired you. Take some time to write down these accomplishments and place them somewhere you will see every day. This will greatly help you project a positive outlook in your job search.

Utilize Social Media And LinkedIn

Social Media can be a great tool to utilize in searching for a job, as well as, connecting with folks around the world that have common professional interests. Use your LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills, accomplishments, connect with like-minded professionals and share your ideas through these platforms.

You will be surprised how quickly you build your professional network of contacts and how you will be recognized by employers and individuals alike in your profession.

Find A Local Support Group

Having professional contacts and advisors are all great; but there are times when you need to rely on individuals that maybe outside your professional life. Finding a local support group maybe the answer for you.

Often the thought of going to a support group at your local church or community center may seem a little extreme. The general perception is that people who go to these meetings have problems and need help, but in reality most people who go to these meetings are just like you. They are trying to share their stories, experiences, see what others are encountering while working through their particular situation.
People find they are good places to talk with resourceful individuals, be accepted and learn new things to help them in their job search process. Most people end up building long term friendships with people that last years.

Make Sure You Allow Some Time For Yourself

When you are searching for a job you mind is in a constant state of worry. Where will your next job come from? How are you going to find it? Who should you be calling? Sending resumes to?

You do not want your entire life obsessed with finding a job, it’s emotionally and physically unhealthy. You still have a life, interests, friends and family. Take time to enjoy those interests and step away from the job search regularly. It will greatly help your emotional state of mind and health.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

First Impressions Count!! So Make The Right One…

Making a great first impression is essential to having a successful interview. Throughout history many influential leaders have stressed the importance of making a great first impression. Most notably the Greeks thought and wrote extensively about the effects of one person’s personality on another. In today’s business environment these concepts are still very relevant when making a first impression.

Ones Ethos as the Greeks defined it, can be referred to as their ethics. Who you are as a person and how you are perceived by others.

The latter being the more influential in the business world. Who you are perceived to be will greatly determine how much influence you have over another person in business and increase your level of credibility in public. In your personal life though the opposite is true; everything you do and/or do not do personally either adds to or decreases your level of credibility with the ones who know you best and are around you every day. Many of the worlds great leaders had great public success, but personally had troubled or little success in their personal affairs.

In public the first impression you make on others dictates how you will be perceived. The most obvious impression revolves from your appearance. When you first meet someone within 30 seconds or so that person will make a judgment about you based on your appearance and within 1 minute finalize an overall opinion about you based on your tone of voice, body language, etc.. Most notability in a hiring / interview setting most hiring managers will admit they make an assumption on a potential employee in less than a minute after meeting that person; that assumption is very hard to change during the interview if the interviewers mind is made up.

So what can you do to make that great first impression?

(1) While you cannot change your god given physical features, you have complete control over how you dress and present yourself to the world. As it may be a sad commentary on the business world that how you dress will greatly influence how you are perceived. Making a conscious effort to dress professionally and be groomed and clean cut when in a public will greatly influence people’s impression of you. Following fashion trends and/or utilizing accessories such as a brief case, ipad, etc.. all add to your overall image. If necessary, take a look in the mirror, get a few fashion magazines or hire a fashion consultant to help you; as your appearance is the number one influencer on the impression you make within that first 30 seconds.

(2) Your body Language is the next thing people perceive about you. Are you making eye contact? Talking in a strong confident manner? Smiling? Have correct posture? Present a pleasant personality? Your body language says a lot about who you are as a person and leader. So stand tall, make eye contact, speak clearly and slowly, use a moderate tone of voice and when making hand gestures do so purposefully and deliberately. Most importantly be confident.

(3) Know what you are talking about!! Once you have made it past the all-important 1 minute hurdle; you now need to show you know what you are talking about. This is where great business professionals shine. They know their stuff. So in an interview setting, you better be ready to show you are qualified, have the experience and understand the business of the company you are interviewing with. Have your resume with you, do you research on the company understand the position they are talking with you about.

Making a good first impression in the business world go’s a long way in having a successful career. The interview is the first step in building that career. So take the time to prepare and present the best version of you when interviewing.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Mistakes Hiring Managers Make!! How To Avoid Them…

As a professional recruiter who has been working and recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild STaffing, I have noticed that candidates feel Job interviews can be an intimidating experience, even for the most experienced candidates; But hiring managers are under the same amount of pressure..

A candidates nerves may get the best of them. But you need to remember that, you as the interviewer are under the same amount of pressure. Employers need experienced candidates and the managers that are doing the interviewing suffer the same insecurities.

The hiring manager is under a great amount of pressure to hire the right candidate. His or her decision directly reflects their abilities to run an organization and a bad hire will greatly impact their reputation within the organization. Candidates on the other hand can simply, continue interviewing and find the right opportunity for your specific skills and situation. If a hiring manager makes a mistake and hires the wrong person the effect could be career ending.

If you are hiring your first or 1000th employee there are a number of basic steps every manager should follow to avoid making a mistake and hiring the wrong employee.

1. The Resume
The resume introduces a candidate’s experience and career history to you. It is a necessary document that allows a candidate to introduce themselves to you as an employer. Do not rely simply on the resume to understand a candidate’s skills, experience and accomplishments.

Use the resume as a guide to learn about the candidate. Talking with them on the phone or an in person interview allows you as an employer to gain a full understanding of the individual. Ask questions; learn about a candidate’s strengths, weaknesses, accomplishments in detail. Have them explain what they did, how they accomplished tasks, worked with others, etc. You can challenge candidates and see how they respond to questions under pressure, as well.

2. Always Check A Candidates References..
One of the most critical mistakes a hiring manager can make is to fail to check candidate’s references. This is of prime importance before hiring any candidate; gaining a outside view point from another as to a candidates experience, skills and reliability will give you as a hiring manager a rounded picture of the candidate; from someone who has worked with them in the past.

References should always be from past employers, candidate’s superiors or business associates that has direct experience working with the individual. On average you should check a minimum of 3 references for each candidate. Additionally, many industries are well connected and a hiring manager may want to check with colleagues or friends from other organizations that they may have in common with the candidate for an additional perspective.

3. Do you Know What Position You Are Hiring For??
A hiring manager needs to know specifically what position they are interviewing for and have a clear understanding of the skills they are seeking. Many times hiring manager’s interview candidates before they even know what skills they are seeking. This leaves a candidate confused as to the position advertised and the interview process within the organization. A candidate may be exceptionally skilled for the position that was advertised, but then finds out in the interview the employer is not sure what they are seeking for the position. This leaves a candidate with an ill faded view of the company and wastes precious time for both the interviewer and candidate.

You, as a hiring manager must fully understand your needs, the position responsibilities, skills required and be able to fully explain the position to a candidate during the interview process. Providing a candidate with as much information as possible will go a long way in making sure you hire the correct individual for the opportunity and assure their expectations are in line with the company goals.

4. Skills Testing?? What’s That…
What’s a skills test? Many employers are asking that same question, but human resource professionals have been using them for years in assessing a candidates skills and the potential fit within a corporate culture.

Utilizing testing for skills assessment can be as simple as a typing test to as complex as an engineering design; that will allow you assess candidates abilities in specific areas that they will be required to accomplish in their daily routines. Employers can additionally expand on the skills testing and incorporate in corporate culture testing to see how a candidate may fit into the overall corporate culture, based on their personally traits, matched against all the other employees of the firm.

With advances of internet technology and cloud based software; these testing processes are now much more affordable and easily accessible by any employer seeking to utilize them as a tool within the scope of overall hiring.

If a hiring manager practices the above tips and assure they check the details when they hire an new employee, your next hire will be a great success.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Interview Anxiety!! How To Combat It Successfully…

As a professional recruiter who has been working and recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing, I have seen and talked with many candidates that have lost job opportunities because of interview anxiety..

Having some anxiousness or anxiety before an interview is always a good thing; it means you are truly interested in working for and leaving a good impression with the firm you are interviewing with. When this anxiety rises to a level where your communication skills and overall health prevent you from advancing in your career or obtaining a new career opportunity; it’s time to take a look at why this is occurring and find a solution to your anxiety.

Most employers want their employees to exhibit confidence, strength and provide an excellent service to their clients; when you are interviewing for a job you always want to show your abilities to handle stress and portray a professional image. When you place to much stress on yourself to get the job in an interview setting you may find your job search beginning to spiral out of control.

So here are some tips to keep your stress and anxiety under control;

(1) Prepare and do your homework on the company you are interviewing with. Learn about their products, services, corporate culture, the job you are interviewing for, who you will be interviewing with and make a list of questions you can ask.

(2) Practice interviewing. Practicing interviewing will make you more comfortable in an interview setting. Rehearse typical questions you may be asked in the interview. Ask a friend to interview you or use a video camera to interview yourself; knowing how it feels to be interviewed will greatly relieve the stress in a real interview setting.

(3) Make a list of your strengths and weaknesses. Practice talking about yourself.

(4) Visit the interview site the day before your interview; so you don’t get lost looking for it right before your interview. See what people are wearing

(5) Prepare you clothes the night before. Wear clean, properly fitting clothing that fits the environment in which you will be interviewing.

(6) Get enough sleep the night before; do not go to an interview looking tired and worn-out. Eat a good breakfast the day of the interview.

(7) Arrive to the interview 10 to 15 minutes early.

(8) Consider the interview a two way conversation; this is not an interrogation. During the interview focus your attention on the interviewer, ask questions and think about your answers. If necessary pause a few seconds to think about what you are going to say first.

(9) Bring examples of your work with you; having visual aids always helps to presenting your experience to an interviewer. Show off your hard work, celebrate the success you have had.

Utilizing these simple tips will help combat your interview anxiety and succeed in obtaining your next career opportunity.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Lots Of Interviews!! But No Job Offers? Why…

As a professional recruiter who has been working and recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing, I have talked with many candidates that go to interview after interview but never get offered a job

If you find yourself in this situation and are going on multiple interviews and receiving no job offers; there must be a reason? So let’s explore the top things that employers look for in a candidate before offering them a position.

(1) Are you qualified for the opportunity you are interviewing for?

The first step in any job search is to review the job description for the position you are interviewing for and make sure you are qualified for the opportunity. Take notes on each qualification an employer is seeking and make sure you have the experience to perform the duties at hand. Use this as a guide in interviewing; to give examples of your experiences, projects you have worked on, obstacles you have overcome, etc. during the interview. This will only emphasize your background to the employer and convince them of your qualifications.

If you find yourself in a situation where you are interviewing for positions which you are not qualified; you will want to reflect on how you will convince a potential employer that you can do the job. In most cases if you are not qualified for a position it will become very clear to the interviewer rather quickly during the interview; do not set yourself up for failure. If you are applying for jobs that are clearly above your qualification level and not getting them it’s time to redirect your job search efforts on positions that you are clearly qualified for.

(2) Are you interested and sincerely excited about the job opportunity?

Does the position excite you or are you simply interviewing because you need a paycheck. You want to work in a career that you are interested in, excited about going to work for every day. If you simply going to interview after interview and are not excited about the opportunities; you need to reflect on the types of jobs that you are currently interviewing for and redirect your efforts to positions that interest you. Employers want to hire individuals that are enthusiastic about working for them, and you need to show that passion in your interview.

(3) Are you establishing a rapport with the interviewer?

As a candidate you need to show your personality. All too many times interviews become stale and routine. The candidate has a responsibility to establish a rapport with the interviewer. Make some small talk; conversations are enjoyable if they are a two way dialog. Ask questions, inquire about the organization, history, the interviewers background, how they enjoy working for the company all help in having a successful interview.

If you currently find yourself in a situation where all your interviews are stale and routine, you are not establishing this rapport. Think about questions you can ask prior to the interview to prepare yourself. This will go a long way to opening up doors within a company.

(4) Are you defining your value to a perspective employer? Are you over pricing yourself?

Salary is one of those items which you need to be prepared to discuss almost immediately with a potential employer. As a candidate you need to understand what an employer is seeking to pay for a desired opportunity up front. If you are interviewing for positions which are way below your expected compensation level; then you are wasting your time, as well as, the employers.

You additionally need to understand your value, what you are worth in the marketplace. Use salary guides, look at other positions in the field with the same qualifications, ask your peers what they make. You do not want to overprice yourself out of the marketplace. During the interview you need to establish your value to an employer; cite examples of work, accomplishments, have a clear understanding of their business and what you can bring to the organization. If you establish your value and the employer sees what you bring to an organization the your salary negotiations will be much easier.

(5) What are you career goals? Do you know?

Prior to any job search you need to have a clear understanding of your career goals and where you are heading. Have you written then down!! Employers will most likely want to know your goals and how you seek to accomplish them. Writing them down beforehand will aid you in being able to clearly express your goals to an employer.

(6) Are you presenting a professional, clean appearance?

You have most likely heard the saying ”image is everything..” how you present yourself for the first time to an employer will direct the tone of the interview. Your personal appearance will be one of the first things someone will judge you on. So make sure you clean up; dress professionally, present yourself in a well-organized and professional manner.

(7) Have you researched the employer before the interview?

Have you done your homework? Have you researched the employer you are interviewing with? Do you understand their business? If not, you better start!! As employers are looking for candidates that take initiative and are intelligent. Researching and preparing yourself for the interview puts you ahead of the crowd in an interviewers mind when they see you clearly understand their business and have a clear understanding of their organization and goals.

(8) Are you selling yourself and presenting your accomplishments clearly?

Sell yourself!! Talk about your accomplishments, experiences, goals, etc.. If you are just sitting in interviews and answering questions that are asked, you most likely will not get the job. You need to sell yourself!! You might have the greatest business mind in the world, but if you don’t talk about your accomplishments, skills, projects and qualifications then no one will know.

(9) Are you asking questions and communicating professionally?

Asking questions during the interview will help in clearly demonstrating your interest in an opportunity. It will show the interviewer you are interested in learning more and aid in establishing a professional and successful two way dialog.

Using the above items to reflect on will help you in having successful interview experiences; the best interviews are usually the ones where the candidate is relaxed and communicates professionally and clearly. Don’t get caught up in the details, but be prepared and ready to put your best foot forward.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Tell Me About Yourself?? How To Answer One Of The Most Asked Interview Questions

As a professional recruiter who has been working and recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing, I have talked to many candidates that have no idea about how to answer one of the most simple and most often asked questions during an interview..

“Tell a little about yourself….?”

The question is a little cheesy in nature as the interviewer most likely has a copy of your resume and can clearly see your professional qualifications. The questions objective is not really about your skills and qualifications though, but rather how you present yourself and can communicate with a potential employer.

Your communication abilities or lack of during an interview will be the most important factor in succeeding or failing to have a successful interview. How you communicate your education, career history, objectives, skills, accomplishments and failures are what they are seeking in this questions response.

So when answering this question you want to present yourself in the most basic terms for a potential employer to understand. Why you chose this profession, How your career has evolved, how you have advanced, what responsibilities you have undertaken, projects you have succeed with, obstacles you have overcome, where you are looking to advance to now; are all important factors that need to be considered when answering this basic question.

So what is your story? Do you know? Have you sat down to think about it? Practice it? Well let’s start…

First, make sure your resume is complete. Check all your online profiles (blogs, professional associations, social media, etc.) to assure they match up to what you will provide to employers in your resume. Be genuine and make sure you can back up anything you place on the resume or communicate to an employer. Consistency in your story is key. Always make sure you are able to get all of your strengths conveyed with confidence.

Second, sit down and outline what your story will be. It should always be based primarily off of your education and business experience. Walking an employer through our career for the last 5 to 10 years is probably best, don’t overwhelm them with all the details, but focus on how you progressed in the industry, advanced in rank and achieved success in each of the positions you have had. Focus on achievements, projects and how your overall experience has made you a much more rounded and valuable employee.

Do not get bogged down in detailed or personal issues that are not relevant to the position you are interviewing for; however if you have a personal skill that may benefit your potential employer don’t be afraid to share that as well, but make sure it is relevant. If it is a personal, social, or volunteer example, try to use only one scenario and be very specific with what your job was and how it benefited those involved. This is an easy area to start rambling off subject, so be very cautious when relaying personal stories.

Third, practice, practice, practice!!! Write your story down, stand in front of the mirror and present it, video tape yourself, ask a friend or spouse to listen to your story. Get feedback from them. Most of all learn to be comfortable talking about yourself and your career.

Having a story when talking with a potential employer will go a long way to creating a meaningful, two way dialog in an interview setting and the employer understanding how valuable an employee you would be to their organization.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Google And Your Social Media Image? Check It Out Before You Begin Searching For A Job.

As a professional recruiter who has been working and recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing, I have seen many candidates learn after the fact how important it is to have a professional image on the internet.

Just a few years ago the main source of information your interviewer had to go on regarding your background was your resume and references, but as technology and the internet has advanced we have become a knowledge driven society and our professional image needs to be cared for.

and thoughtful to meet your responsibilities and ensure project timelines remain on schedule and within budget. Thankfully, utilizing these project management tips can help you reduce the risk of failure and deliver projects more efficiently.

Plan Strategically

Strategic planning is among the most important elements of project management. It helps you and everyone involved to know where you’re going and how you’re going to get there. When planning out a project, you’ll have to identify deliverables – establish project milestones, determine required labor as well as equipment. Planning strategically will go a long way in maximizing efficiency.

Establish a Flow of Communication

Effective communication is essential for successful project completion. In fact, 59 percent of the US workers believe that communication is their team’s major obstacle to success. Therefore, as a PM you’ll need to establish a flow of communication with the stakeholders and suppliers as well as other team members on the ground. Good and bad news alike will need to circulate in a timely manner. Failure to do so will lead to delays, misunderstandings and other problems in the long run.

The contract documents, including the drawings, progress records, request for information (RFI), and change order forms establish the basis for all communication in any project. Thus, it’s vital that any direct communication that’s not stated in these documents be acknowledged, documented and reported via the right channels; this flow of communication will make preparation and implementation smoother.

For large and more complicated projects, tools such as Collaborative Work Management (CWM) will come in handy. Such tools will dramatically improve communication by syncing attachments, comments, news, budgets, and calendars and enhance real-time scheduling of changes. As a result, it will allow you more time to coordinate work at the site and direct your efforts towards success.

Form a Habit of Monitoring Progress and Making Adjustments

Managing a project requires integrated effort and more attention. A good PM should be an essential part of the project, working closely and figuratively alongside others. You’ll have to carefully analyze daily progress reports as well as keep an eye on schedule and budget. Many are the times you will need to actually see an issue in person before you can resolve it. In case the set timelines start to slip, you’ll need to identify the possible root cause and discuss ways to bring the project back on track.

In conclusion, the key to a successful project completion is being firm but flexible. Always ensure you’re looking ahead to understand the risks involved in the project and try to mitigate them before they become big problems.

If you are looking for a career as a project manager, Webuild Staffing is here to help. That’s what we do best every day – find exceptional professonals, exceptional jobs!

Show Case Your Work!! The Importance Of Portfolios In An Interview..

As a professional recruiter who has been working and recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing, I have found candidates that have developed project portfolio’s achieve greater success in communicating their experience and abilities during an interview.

Portfolios were originally used in the photography and design industry, but now have become very popular in the architectural, construction, engineering and environmental markets. When used properly they showcase your career history and provide an example of what you have accomplished from a project perspective, as well as, showcasing your professional growth with a solid collection of paper documentation or digital files in one cohesive location.

The portfolio allows you as a candidate to communicate with an interviewer on a deeper level; adding a visual aid will help create a two-way dialog in discussing how you would be a good fit for the position you are interviewing for.

The more experience you have the larger your portfolio will become over the years. It is a good idea to constantly update your portfolio and keep items within the portfolio relevant to the position you are interviewing for. You do not want to present an interviewer with a 100 page document of all the projects you have ever worked on. Keeping the most relevant and important items in the portfolio is best to be able to touch on those projects, reports or items and make the best use of your time during the interview.

When organizing your portfolio; items should be organized in sections; career documentation (resume, references, professional licenses, certifications, letters of reference, transcripts, and educational verification materials), project examples (project descriptions, project documentation, pictures, etc.) and work samples (reports and other documentation you created
that may be beneficial for a potential new employer to review).

If your portfolio is in hard copy, keep it as organized and clean as possible. Use a binder, section dividers / tabs and make sure the documents are securely fastened within and not wrinkled or torn.

As technology has advanced so significantly over the years in presenting information via digital media; you can additionally store your portfolio on a website, in a digital magazine, pdf or personal network in which you can utilize for presenting information to an interviewer via ipad, laptop or mobile phone during your interview. When done properly this can be a very effective method to have in your interviewing arsenal.

As with anything though, this is just one of many tools that candidates should be utilizing to communicate their experience during an interview. Candidates should always keep in mind the best tool to establish rapport and obtain a career opportunity is direct verbal communication with an interviewer the portfolio is only an aid to allow that communication channel to open up.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Attitude Is Everything!! Interviewing For Success..

As a professional recruiter who has been working and recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing, I have found the candidates with the best attitude and friendly personality when entering an interview; usually succeed in having a positive interview experience and obtaining employment.

As the sayings goes “you never get a second chance to make a first impression” and you “typically only have 5 seconds to make your first impression..” Is so true when it comes to any interview you may have.

Your attitude and state of mind before an interview will most always dictate how the interview will go. So a few basic tips for getting in the right state of mind before your interview:

Before you venture out to your interviewers location; Take a breath, relax and clear your head. Do not stress over the interview and any potential pitfalls you may encounter. Be prepared, do your research, dress appropriately and understand you are interviewing the employer as much as they are interviewing you.

As you enter any organization’s office take note of your surroundings; be polite and courteous to everyone you encounter along the way. Arrived at least 10 minutes early and turned off all of your electronic devices. Focus your attention on the interview at hand and the person conducting the interview.

Make sure you look alert, smile, sit up straight, look the interviewer in the eyes and speak clearly. Ask questions and be genuinely interested in the job and organization you are interviewing with. If you are only there for the potential paycheck you should sit back and evaluate you career goals before proceeding in further interviews. You want to work in a career you enjoy, are interested in and allow you a healthy living environment.

Allow your personality to show through; being polite and kind to those around you is a good indication of how you treat others in the day to day work environment. Answer questions genuinely, do not exaggerate and take on an insincere roll that you won’t be able to live up to.

We are all human. People hire individuals that are talented, experienced and have a personality that they believe they will enjoy working with. Allow the interviewer to do their job by leading the interview. You don’t want to monopolize the conversation, nor do you want to offer too much information, personal or even business related. When asked about past employers, co-workers etc., always provide positive comments, talk about your accomplishments, things you have learned and turn negatives into positives; never complain about past employers or bosses.

When the interview is over thank the interviewer for their time and know you presented yourself in a positive and healthy way.

Following these basic tips will go along way in assuring your interview’s are productive and positive experiences.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Don’t Talk So Much!! How Not To Talk Your Way Out Of A Job..

As a professional recruiter who has been working and recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing . On many occasions I have found candidates talking so much during the interview that they talk themselves right out of consideration for a job opportunity.

Do you consider yourself a talker? Been told you have the gift of gab? Well it’s time to set some rules so you do not talk your way out of consideration for a job.

It is important to remember that you are being interviewed to see if your skills, qualification and overall personality will fit into an organization. Interviewers are only human, the hire who they believe are the most talented professionals, as well as, the individuals they like and will enjoy working with.

So it is important to remember interviewers are just like you; human. Their attention spans only last so long and having an effective two way conversation during an interview is critical to your success.

So Now The Rules:

(1) Your responses to typical interview questions should be thought out in advance; do your planning!! Prepare for the interview!!
(2) Your responses to questions should only last one minute to 90 seconds.
(3) Do not over elaborate on subjects. Answer questions directly and thoughtfully. Stay on subject.
(4) Treat any negatives in your background as positives.
(5) Do not get into long winded personal details about yourself. Keep the conversation professional.
(6) Ask questions!! Engage the interviewer and keep his attention.

Interviewers are skilled at nodding their heads and saying hmm. When you see this occurring during your interview their minds are beginning to wander and you are losing their attention. You need to remember the rules and re-engage them so they begin listening to what you are saying again; rather than thinking about the next question they are going to ask and/or formulating an opinion about you before the interview is over.

If you keep your gift for gab under control and remember these rules, you will be amazed in how successful your interviewing experiences will be.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Do You Have Any Questions? 10 Great Questions To Ask An Interviewer..

As a professional recruiter who has been working and recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing .

I have found these 10 questions a great way to turn the table on the interviewer, show genuine interest in the position and gain insight into the overall organizational culture of a company.

These are great must ask questions…

1. Can you describe a typical work day or week in this position?
2. How would you quantify a successful year in this position?

3. What are your goals for this position, within the overall organizational structure?
4. What are the largest challenges this position will face going forward?
5. How do you measure success? What are the biggest challenges for the organization?
6. What types of management styles do other managers within the organization have?
7. Is this a new position? If not, what did or did not make the previous employee successful?
8. Do You have any reservations in hiring me?
9. When do you expect to hire for this position?
10. What are the next steps in your interview process?

Asking these questions will help you gain additional insight into an organization, the position you are interviewing for, as well as, help shape the interviewers impression of you and you’re your interest in the position within the scope of the overall interview.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Can You Handle It?? Stress Interviews….

As a professional recruiter who has been working in and recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing. I have seen many extremely qualified candidates encounter a interview technique that places a candidate into a stressful interview environment.

Stress interviews are one of the lesser common interviews types you will encounter in your job search; but yet are still utilized by some employers out there.

The idea behind this interview technique is just what it sounds like – it is designed to put you under a tremendous amount of stress so the employer can see how you handle specific situations and questions. The goal of the interviewer is to see how you react; can you lead by example, manage people and situations as they arise. While keeping your cool and focus on the job at hand.

The interview environment may seem stressful from the minute you enter the door to the time you leave. Typically you are treated inconsiderately and often made to wait quite a while for the actual interview. You most likely will be treated rudely and asked questions that are focused around how you react in to situations, question your authority as a leader and/or may judge you based on your possible answers to questions asked.

If you encounter this type of interview stop and consider if this is really a company you want to work for. If this is how they conduct their interviews it is a good possibility that it is a preview to how they treat their employees as well. An environment of confrontation, intimidation and discomfort in the workplace may not be the most desirable career move and while the employer is evaluating you, you should also be doing the same.

Always remember to keep your perspective, act professional, answer questions directly and evaluate an organization based on your career goals and objectives. There is no harm to telling an interviewer that you believe this may the wrong type of working environment for you, thank them for their time and move on to the next career prospect.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Informal Interviews – The New Casual Interviewing Environment!!

As a professional recruiter who has been working recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing. I have seen many interviews conducted in such an informal setting that they could be considered a conversation rather than an interview; don’t let the setting confuse you..

We are now in a world where everything we do is becoming more and more casual and interviews are no different. Many employers are now trending towards a much more casual and comfortable interview style – the “Informal Interview”. This is most often a meet up for a cup of coffee, quick breakfast or snack and can leave the interviewee confused as to how to proceed, even with simple aspects such as what to wear.

Don’t forget an interview is an interview and you should prepare this informal gathering much the same way you would for a traditional interview. You should still dress just as you would if it was being held in their office. Complete your recommended research on the company so you are educated about your interviewer, their company and what type of employee they value and hire. You should still be prepared to explain your strengths, career plan and goals, the value you bring and how your expertise makes you the ideal candidate. Always bring extra copies of your resume and any samples of work would normally want to have to help present yourself as a very organized and professional manner.

Unlike a traditional interview however, you will usually have more of an opportunity to ask questions and to learn more about their company than you would normally have. There is also the pitfall of allowing the casual setting to let yourself slip into a more casual way of speaking – keep it professional and appropriate – remember, it’s still an interview. It’s not uncommon for an offer to be extended to you in this informal setting, and you should be prepared with how you want to handle this and proceed.

At the end of the interview make sure you get a business card and promptly write and send out a thank you note, as you normally would. When the check comes, it is traditional that the interviewer takes care of it, as they invited you there.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Are You Qualified? Succeeding In A Qualification Interview..

As a professional recruiter who has been working recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing. I have seen many extremely qualified candidates never get past the first qualification stage of the interview process, due to lack of preparedness..

In a Qualifications Interview setting the interviewer is seeking precisely information about what makes you qualified for the opportunity – your skills, past experiences and qualifications.

They are seeking to obtain information on the qualifications you possess and how well they pertain to the position they are hiring for. You will need to choose your answers carefully to allow yourself to concisely, yet completely, demonstrate how your experience directly relates to their needs.

This is an interview where you can expect lots of demonstrative questions about your past and how well it has prepared you to go further with their company. You can expect a series of questions like:

(1) Why do you want this job?
(2) What qualifies you for this job?
(3) Why should we hire you, what can you do for us?
(4) Why are you the best candidate for this opportunity?
(5) How do you measure success?
(6) What makes you a team player?
(7) Tell me about your successes? What are your strengths?
(8) Tell me about your failures? What are your weaknesses?

Everything about this interview revolves around your experience and how it has helped you to become the perfect candidate for the position you are interviewing for. As you provide your answers you should also be prepared to follow them up with solid examples and explanations of how it will benefit your prospective employer in the future.

As with any interview don’t forget how important it is to make sure that your answers to these questions match any previous answers you have given, as they are also looking for honesty, consistency and integrity.

In addition it is important to make sure that you are prepared to speak with potential employers when they call. If you need to let the call go to voicemail so that you have the advantage of listening to the message and properly preparing yourself before returning the call, do not hesitate to do so.

A little preparedness can go a long way when you begin the interviewing process; especially during the qualification interview stage. Do not let a qualification interview impede your success; this is the time to showcase your abilities and qualification’s.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Video Conference Interviews – Set The Stage!!!

As a professional recruiter who has been working recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing I have seen many extremely qualified candidates get intimidated by a video conference interview situation.

As more and more people are relocating for business these days and technology advances the video conference interview is becoming more and more common in the interview process. This type of interview speeds up the interview process for employers and allows both the candidate and interviewer the opportunity to “feel out” a situation without a significant commitment to time and travel.

Don’t let the camera and microphone intimidate you – it’s just a normal interview after all!!

If however, you are not familiar with the technology behind using your webcam; make sure you allow time to learn the hardware and software technology before the interview, by testing the webcam and conducting a mock interview on your own before the actual interview. Set the stage, test things out, and practice your video conference interview skills beforehand.

Beyond the technology aspect you should treat this just like a regular interview. Make sure you do your preliminary research on the company and the position itself just as you would any other in person interview. Dress just as you normally would (proper pants/skirt too in case you stand up or move around) and make sure to create an interview friendly atmosphere around you. Eliminate any distractions, phone ringers, radios, and other people talk around you. Make sure any information you may need or want to refer to, as well as, a glass of water is in front of you.

Be aware of what may be showing in the background and clean up any distractions and clutter. Utilizing the picture in picture feature also will allow you to be aware of just what the interviewer is seeing from your end. On that same note be aware that the microphone will also amplify all the noises around you. So the pen you are tapping, the paper you are shuffling or foot you are tapping will probably add to background noise and be a distraction during the interview.

When in doubt just treat this as though you were in the same room with the interviewer and let your conduct follow the traditional expectations of any in person interview.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com). To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Surprise?? Are You Ready For An Interview!!

As a professional recruiter who has been working recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing I have seen many extremely qualified candidates in an interview situation get caught off guard with surprise or unexpected questions.

Surprise! Whether it’s a single question or the entire interview, it’s almost guaranteed to stop you in your tracks! Unfortunately for those in the interview process this is becoming a trend and many more interviewers are utilizing this technique. Sometimes the questions are more thought provoking but simple, “when can you start” or “what would you ask if you were me?” Many large companies are known for their weird or offbeat questions like “how many

cows are in Canada”, “rate yourself on a scale of 1-10 of how weird you are”, “how many basketballs can you fit into this room”, “if you could be any superhero – who would it be”, and “what would you do if you just inherited a pizzeria from your uncle”?

A surprise question is meant to throw you off and give you pause for a moment. It not only tests how you handle stress under pressure but is also meant to test your creativity. When presented with this type of questions make sure to keep your calm and remain composed. Take a moment to consider how you want to answer the question and then do so when you have formulated the perfect answer. Just remember this is just a test to see beyond your professional facade and get a glimpse into your personality; there really is no right or wrong answer to these questions..

The entire interview a surprise? More and more employers these days tend to be calling potential employees and springing a surprise interview on them. While they are growing in popularity they are bad business for both interviewer and interviewee. The interviewee is ill prepared, unfocused on the interview, and possibly not even somewhere that they can easily handle their end of the interview. The employer is definitely not going to get a realistic picture of the candidate and the candidate is often afraid to say it’s a bad time to talk for accurate fear of not getting a call back. If possible the best way to take back some control of this process is to simply screen your calls while job searching. This will give you the opportunity to prepare yourself and find a quiet spot to return the call when it’s convenient to your schedule.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com) . To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Behavioral Interviews…Shine With The STAR Method!!

As a professional recruiter who has been working recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing I have seen many extremely qualified candidates lose an opportunity because they get tripped up in a behavior interview situation.

During a traditional interview the employer is looking to determine if you will be a good fit for their company based on questions about how you might handle future situations as they arise. In a behavioral interview the employer is more interested in how your past work history would make you a good candidate for a future position and tends to be very job specific. They will seek examples that demonstrate you already possess the skills they have deemed necessary for the position you are interviewing for. Your strengths and weaknesses are not nearly as important as what you have actually done; in this type of interview.

Prior to any interview it always a good idea to review your work history, past situations and events that you have dealt with and be prepared to present this to a potential employer in an interview situation. Take some time to review not only the position description but also their website, literature and other company material. You should be aware of what the company is about and what they expect from their employees. Carefully consider the skills that they will likely require of an employee and be prepared to show that you already have a history of successfully demonstrating them in past employment, always being specific with the when and how.

When answering questions you should always refer to the STAR method; Situation (describe what the situation was), Task (what goal did you hope to achieve), Action (what did you do to reach your goal, and Result (be able to explain how you, specially, achieved the goal in the end).

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com) . To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Panel Interviews….Are You Ready For A Grilling?

As a professional recruiter who has been working recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at Webuild Staffing. I have noticed that most candidates are the most stressed and worried about a panel interview.

Even the most experienced and dedicated professionals dread this type of interview. Sitting in a room, with 3 to 10 people forming opinions about you can be stressful, especially when you are interviewing for a position you really want.

As the name implies this is an interview with a group of people. Sometimes it will be with everyone all together at one time, but sometimes it may also be with the members of the panel separately, wherein they will come together to meet, discuss and determine how they each felt about the applicant.

Try to research the individuals on the panel ahead of time if you know who they will be so that you can best prepare for who you will be meeting with. This should also help you prepare yourself with a custom question that you can ask each one at the end of your interview as well as to help you engage with even the most quiet member of the panel. When meeting with a panel it is even more important to remain calm and avoid the appearance that you may be intimidated by the members and the more knowledge you have about them ahead of time the better chance you have of remaining calm during the process.

As with any interview you should also be prepared with a story that shows off your past work history and how well your skills fit into the position they are hiring for. If you are interviewing with the panel members separately or in groups, make sure you take notes about what each asked and how you answered, as well as any information about the job or company that you were able to obtain, and whom you obtained it from to ensure consistency with multiple interviews.

The key to these types of interviews are to be prepared, be confident in your skills and qualifications. Address questions in a straightforward and direct manner; relating past experiences to the interviewers questions. The abilities to link your past with how you can benefit this new employer will make a panel interview a fun and rewarding experience. More like a backyard BBQ rather than a Grilling..

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com) . To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com

Frustrated With The Interview Process??

As a professional recruiter who has been working recruiting professionals in the environmental, engineering and construction industries for over 18 years now at www.webuildstaffing.com. I have seen many extremely qualified candidates get frustrated with employers interview processes.

Each employer seems to have their own thought-out process; but for qualified candidates an initial Screening interview can be a frustrating and an unneeded step in the eyes of an experienced candidate.

Screening interviews have become more and more common in today’s economy as there are an unbalanced number of applicants per job position and employers no longer have the time for a traditional interview of all applicants. A screening interview is typically a pre-interview done to make sure the applicant is adequately qualified for the position they have applied to. This is usually a brief interview and often done over the phone or, sometimes, over a webcam before sending the applicant through to the rest of the interview process. It the screener’s primary task to make sure you are as qualified as you claim to be, are not overpriced for the position they have open and have been truthful on your resume.

While this is a general interview is typically done with someone other than the actual decision maker it is still vital to the process, as this is just first step of many. Don’t forget to treat the screener with the same respect you would to their superior as your attitude will likely be reported, whether good or bad. Overall, however they are not making a judgment on your personality, this is more about checking facts and selecting the best qualified to send through to begin the formal interview process. It is imperative that you are very familiar with any and all information listed on your resume and are prepared to confirm the facts listed. If possible you may even want to have your resume with you to refer to, if necessary.

The goal for a candidate in this step is to be respectful, communicate your experience, qualifications and genuinely express your interest in the opportunity. Always get the interviewers name, phone number and gain an understanding of the specific employers hiring process to be aware of what to expect and how to follow-up throughout the interview process.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing (www.webuildstaffing.com) . To learn more about Michael or Follow his Blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com