Millennium Personnel Interns Blog

How To Bring Your Creativity To Any Job.

admin — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:14:01 +0000

Who says that all office jobs are boring? Creative individuals are often jaded to taking certain jobs they consider “boring”, especially in the corporate job market. What most people don’t understand is, as more imaginative workers, we can adapt to any job and find that creative fulfillment. It is easy to bring your resourcefulness to any position. Take me for instance. I’m a graphic designer and I am thriving in an office administration role by using my eye for detail that I perfected doing design layouts, to make sure everything is precise.

One of the ways you can use your ingenuity is for problem solving, as most times you need out of the box thinking to help you deal with clients and executives. Also, office jobs can sometimes get pretty stuffy, so a great way to bring your ascetic zest is by bring some life into the space. Create a painting to hang on the wall or keep some fresh flowers on the desk. You would be surprised how these small things will make a better work place for all.

Improving the work flow and communications in an office is a great way for more original people to shine. Send out an inspirational email every morning, or start an after work office coffee meet-up. One of a creatives greatest ability is to talk to people, so bring up that office morale. It’s cliché but true “a happy worker works harder”. Don’t ever think you’re limited to the type of jobs can apply. It’s up to you to show that your imaginative zeal will be asset to any company. So be creative and land that job.

-Erick

What Do I Hope To Gain From My Internship

admin — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 15:45:42 +0000

Interning has become the norm for most jobs seekers, especially in NYC where job seeking is as competitive as it gets. What I hope to gain at my current internship (along with every other intern in he world) is the actual work experience. Every company has its ideal wish list for an employee and the only way to become that ideal employee is to intern.

Take me for instance, I’m trying to become an Executive Assistant but I’ve never actually worked in an office. Hopefully at my internship I learn the small nuances of the office environment, from working with the other employees to beating the copy machine into submission. One of the main things I hope to learn is etiquette. We all say we know how to talk on the phone, but trust me it’s not as easy as it seems. Being clear and precise while making out what the other person is saying is an art that I’m hoping to master.

The main point of any internship is to get your face and personality out there. A lot of internships end with a job offer, or job referral. Just being good at what you do doesn’t always get you the job. A lot is based on your ability to work well with the current staff. I don’t just hoe to gain, I know I will gain the work experience and get great job referrals.

-Erick

Getting around over the “qualified” problem

admin — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:52:40 +0000

As a job seeker, we have been told at some point or another that we may have been told under-qualified. The solution to this is to simply go back to school or do an internship to gain the required qualifications. Sometimes, however, you may be considered to be over-qualified.
The definition for being over-qualified is being skilled, experienced or educated beyond the point of what is necessary for the position. The employer might think that you will get bored of this position, you may leave this position for something better or they may not be able to hire you due to being overqualified. The solution to this obstacle is less than obvious. You would really have to think about how a person can apply for a position that they are clearly over-qualified for.
Some ways to avoid being labeled as over-qualified; you should only put down about 15 years of experience for managerial type positions and about 10 years for technical positions. This is especially important for those looking for a career change from a high stress environment to a more work to life balance. It’s a matter of wording this reason on your resume or cover letter. The best way is to word it to show your desire to move to a less stressful position, while maintaining your energy and commitment level. The best way to word this is to say that you no longer enjoy a stressful and frenzied position. Instead, you are looking for something new that will allow you to have to proper work to life balance.
For those who have too much experience for one position, the best way to tackle this issue is to show that you have moved up in this position. You should explain that you have gotten raises and more responsibilities within that position. If you’ve had the same job title throughout your career, do not make up different job titles. Simply compare your level of experience, raises and expanded responsibilities to an equivalent job title. An example would be a managerial position. As you take on more responsibilities, you can call your title “Senior Manager” or “Supervising Manager”. Basically, if job titles don’t change, simply label the job title that would give you more responsibilities next the job title that you technically have. The “Senior Manager” is a manger who is operating on a “senior’ level.
A perception that you may come across from employers is that you are either not ambitious for taking a lower position or that you need to learn something new. You can diminish this perception by stating that you are capable of putting in over-time work. As for the perception of you learning something new, state that you are either taking classes or have already taken classes in adult education and/or software classes. This will show that you are ready to go and that you require no training.
Applying for positions that you are over-qualified for may be a change of pace but nonetheless, this is treated as a career change and you should go about your resume and interview in that manner.

Effective Leadership Styles

admin — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:49:06 +0000

EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP STYLES

Some of the characteristics of an effective leader are responsibility, being respectful of other people’s feelings, good organization, and attention to detail. Lets start with the first trait, which is responsibility. A leader who exercises great responsibility will not let anything fall through the cracks. Anything that would seem to be a problem would be rectified as soon as possible. It’s also part of being responsible to make sure that as a good leader you are on time and be very punctual. When a leader is delegating tasks they also must keep in mind that they must treat people with respect and dignity because that will amount to more faster and reliable workers that would reflect back on the company and better portray their image.
Being respectful of other people’s feelings is very important because that is a must for a company that wants to represent opportunity. Religious, and other personal differences must be left at the front door so that it does not cause any personal conflicts. Everyone has personal views but business must remain business. Respect of others will get a business running perfectly.
Organization is vital to any leader because if there is a disorganized element, that can shake a company down to its foundation. A leader is what effects followers the most and you definitely do not want to pass down any bad habits that would make bad work ethics. An organized appearance shows the public that you mean business and you want to cater to them properly.
Attention to detail is a big plus for a leader because presentation of a company’s image is totally reflected on the company’s leaders. That can make or break a lot of important contacts and affiliations that would eventually put a sloppy business to rest. No leader could afford to have a bad project or ongoing bad image or that would lead to his or her demise.
Based on these characteristics, a leader can go far in the business realm and create an organization that stands out to the public in a positive view, encouraging new growth and flourishing.

Temporary work, is it worth it?

admin — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:45:16 +0000

We all know it’s tough out there when it comes to getting a job. A lot of companies are only giving temporary positions due to the bad economy. Taking a temporary job is something that every job applicant has to consider at some point. It may only be temporary, but it’s not as bad as it sounds.
We all can look at the negative sides of temping; it doesn’t have benefits and it only last a short period. But believe it or not, there are advantages to temping that may not be noticeable at first.
A good reason to temp is that you are learning new skills and keeping your current skills sharp. You are also meeting new people who will be new contacts in terms of job seeking. You can also use your previous temping positions as references for future jobs. A temping position is also a great way to try out a new field for those who are looking for a career change. It allows you to sample a job without committing too much time to it.
If your resume is lacking in experience, taking temp jobs will beef up your resume and skills. Temp positions may not last long, but you are building new connections and networking. Temping also gets your name out there. Sure, a temp position does not provide benefits, but it can pay more per hour and I know everyone likes to get paid more. One of the best parts of temping is that you are working and making money. If you impress your employer enough, they may hire you for permanent work. The employer may even recommend you to another company they know.
Temping will also benefit someone like myself. My goal is to have a well-rounded set of skills. I want to be able to work from any position in a company. I can use temp positions to build up a diverse skill set.
We all like to aim high, but sometimes we need to work with what we can get. Working with what you can get is like having a stepping-stone; it takes you one step closer to your goal. Having a temp position is better than having no position. Employers want to know if you are willing to work, and to show that you have been temping is proof of your dedication to finding a job.

Future Aspirations at Millenium Personnel

admin — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 18:28:20 +0000

I have come across a big surprise committing to Millennium, I never expected an internship that would entail so much responsibilities. The duties that come with this position can get an individual back on their feet and make their resume much more attractive. I am learning so much vital responsibilities that I feel it was God’s will to find this place. When I met with Lainie to acquire a job, she turned me down and I felt disappointed. She offered me an internship instead and I jumped at the chance to build up my work skills and ethics. I feel very blessed to be here and I am hoping that after this experience I will have attained a more stable job with better benefits.

Attitude is Everything

admin — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 17:44:54 +0000

Attitude is everything

An amazing book titled The Difference Maker – making your attitude your greatest asset, a motivational book on optimism. When I first heard about this book my I thought, “Where have you been?”. Reading the book has really opened my eyes. A long time ago I approached many aspects in my life with a pessimistic outlook. Needless to say as a young adult, I thought I knew everything and no one could tell me otherwise. Growing up I learned to fall hard, to get back up and try again. Along the way I developed an “attitude” Attitude is often mistaken to be negative. In my experience with attitude it can also be positive; a learning experience. Experiences can teach us many things. Attitude is one. Experience has taught me that my attitude towards everything needs to change, even in the littlest aspects.
Change can only start with one’s self; a lesson in itself for me. A lesson that took me many, many tries until it finally dawned on me, I can only change me not the things around me. Change stemmed from my attitude forcing my negative energy to venture elsewhere. I started changing in my life in the smallest areas of improvement, like waking up earlier each morning. Once I incorporated waking up early on a daily basis, other healthy habits start to form. Gandhi’s famous quote “Be the change that you wish to see in the world” struck a cord. Every word that quote holds is factual. You cannot change the things around you, you can only change yourself and the way you perceive things.
Attitude isn’t everything, yet it can make a world of difference once altered. Making your attitude your greatest asset will allow you to make better choices; inhibit a healthier lifestyle. I once woke up all hours of the day with no plan no focus on my life. Today I rise with a plan to execute a productive and a proactive life. I choose to be the change I want to see in the world today. I am a better me because my attitude is my greatest asset.

Job Training

admin — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 18:25:42 +0000

With a new year comes a new outlook on job training, seeking new/extra employment or expanding a business. Families are growing amongst economic struggles, and as individuals we need to change with our surroundings.

Building your network is a great steping stone towards job training. Networking can be accomplished in many ways with business acquaintances being one of the few. If you are just entering the workforce, a resume is a great way to introduce yourself to local companies of interest. Putting yourself out there is a great way to start in networking.

Resume building can have its challenges for those entering the workforce. Some creative ways to build a new resume are by reviewing your own transferable skills. Volunteer involvement, internships, and community organization(s) involvements are some things that employers look for in a resume. It shows that the individual is eager to work and is committed to the work. Transferable skills apply to any job service.

And when education is important although not always affordable, some jobs provide funding with some employment packages so it is important to inquire if it is available. And learning a trade is more than just a trade; it’s furthering your education. Employers like to see future employees take the initiative to learn more to gain knowledge towards their career(s). Free program training classes are available from the government for those who qualify. It is important to always continue to educate one’s self because one cannot disadvantage from education.

Networking, building/rebuilding your resume, and continuing your education are necessary tools towards employment or expanding a business. In my experience rebuilding my resume and reentering the workforce is essential. It is what will separate you from every other applicant. Employers are seeking more than experienced employees they seek articulate individuals. Having a strong communication background both verbal and written are helpful and will be useful in landing a job. A little effort paves the way towards hard work.

First Impressions are most important!

admin — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 16:28:52 +0000

I am a new intern with Millennium Personnel Corp. My first day I was excited and thrilled to meet the associates and gain experience necessary for the work force. At first I was overwhelmed. However, as the day continued I learned that is part of the process. I was introduced to managers and staff, tour of our office and history of Millennium Personnel Corp.
I was taught how to respond and better prepare myself for future interviews. Learning how to properly and effectively screen calls has been informative. At first I was timid in answering incoming calls, but after some practice, managing phones has become second nature. My manager, Lainie, reminded me how important, not only appearance can be, but how effectively a person speaks. A first impression is a lasting one!
I hope to gain a better and informative understanding of the work force. I’d like to carry an excellent work ethic in my work environment from my internship experience. I am eager to learn and I am excited for the next steps in my journey.

My Millennium Experience

admin — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:37:15 +0000

When I came into Millennium Personnel looking for a job, never in a million years did I expect the manager to offer me an internship opportunity. I accepted this opportunity for many reasons. One of them being that I have close to no experience in office work and that alone will make it almost impossible for me to find a job anywhere. I appreciated Lanie, the manager, tremendously at the moment because she was able to overlook my lack of experience and focus on my potential instead. From this internship I plan to take a lot with me to my next job. I will be able to gain the experience necessary for me to get that job that I worked so hard for in school. It will be a short experience level but it is still more than what I had before getting the internship. With working my hardest and showing Lanie and Stephanie that I am a reliable and responsible worker, I am also ensuring my reference for my next job so that they can explain to my next employer how I am as a worker. Also, working side by side to them, I will learn the tricks of the trade because of how experienced they are. It’s always a pleasure to work next to two individuals that will only help you gain knowledge and experience.

In this internship, I hope to learn all that I will be unable to learn on my own. For example, I only knew about Quickbooks because of some of the jobs that I wanted to apply for required knowledge on it. But now, little by little, I am learning how to work with it and I will be able to tell my next employer that I’m not an expert on it but that I know the basics and that I am a fast learner. With the mini meetings that Lanie has us do from time to time, I will learn exactly what to say and what to do with certain situation because of the activity she calls the ‘hot seat’. Those activity and meetings are to prepare me and the other interns for day to day situations that can potentially happen in the work place. Also, because of her meetings, I was able to get over my fear of interviews a bit more. This helps me a lot, due to my interview anxiety that I have. What also help me are the cold callings. This helps with my fear of talking to other people.

This internship has been the best thing that I could have happened to me right now. I’m unemployed and I could have been home doing nothing but instead I am working on my experience with wonderful people.