If you’re looking for a job, you probably know how FRUSTRATING it is to fill out online job applications. They take forever to complete, they can time out while you’re in the middle of filling them out, and after all of the time and energy you put into them, you RARELY hear back from employers. So, what are you doing wrong? Chances are, you’re making this tiny mistake when you’re filling out online job applications… This little error could result in your application getting tossed every single time you apply for a job. And that’s just a waste of time! What’s the mistake? You’re not filling out every single field listed on the job application. Sometimes you’re allowed to “skip” a field when you’re filling out an online job application. And you might take advantage of this, thinking, “Well, I don’t have an answer for that, so I’m just going to skip it.” Unfortunately, by doing that, you’re getting yourself disqualified. Here’s why.... The applicant tracking system, or ATS, gathers all of the data you’ve filled in and puts it into a “digital spreadsheet” of sorts. It immediately looks through this “spreadsheet” and compares all of the candidates on the list. With so much competition for jobs posted online, employers have to have a system to eliminate candidates that might not be worth reviewing. That’s where this “spreadsheet” comes in. Basically, the ATS eliminates anyone who didn’t fill out the online job application completely so it can narrow down the applicants. So, if you skip fields on the application, it will likely get pulled from the “spreadsheet” and no one will ever see that you applied. While it’s frustrating, it happens. So, if you choose to apply to jobs online, make sure you fill out every field, even the ones you can skip. If it does not apply to you, put in “N/A.” That way, you won’t be tossed on a technicality. In the end, though, applying for jobs online is a lengthy, frustrating process. Strongly consider other job search techniques that will help you move forward faster and more effectively - like strategic networking!
There you are: sitting on the beach, covered in sunscreen, reading your favorite book, drinking your favorite drink under the cool shade of an umbrella. Life doesn't get any better than this. Suddenly, a door slams, a phone rings, a printer turns on. You jolt back into consciousness. You're at work, sitting in your cubicle, without even a hint of sunshine streaming in from outside.
When you're working a full-time job, finding time to enjoy the warm, bright summer weather can be a challenge. This is especially true for young professionals, as many of them are used to having summers off (or, at the very least, having a flexible summer schedule). But there's no need to feel trapped behind your cubicle walls. Go out and enjoy summer!
Here are a few tips for making the most of your summer while working full time.
1. Grab Some Foldable Chairs
Bigstock
Keep a couple of foldable camping chairs at the office so you and a co-worker can catch some rays during lunch—whether it's in the park or the parking lot.
2. Keep A Beach Bag In Your Car
Bigstock
Keep a bag full of summer supplies for your favorite summer activities. Having a bag (or, in my case, a backseat) full of towels, sunscreen, and swimwear keeps you prepared for anything. Friends hitting up the pool after work? You're covered. Once the clock strikes five, you can head to your destination of choice immediately.
3. Plan An Office Outing
Bigstock
Plan an office field trip to the beach, the park, or the pool. Just do something fun so your brain can recharge and refresh!
4. Organize Group Walks
Bigstock
Get a bunch of co-workers together and go on regular walks around town during lunch. (Or you could suggest a quick jaunt over to the ice cream shop.) This is a great way to get some fresh air, sunshine, and exercise.
5. Eat Lunch At The Park
Bigstock
When you find yourself eating out, hit up places with a deck, porch, or patio of some sort. Obviously, eating out every day isn't really a feasible option for most of us, so look into alternative ideas as well. Pack a lunch and hit the park for your own little picnic.
6. Organize Office Sports
Bigstock
Whether it's setting up an official office sports team or just hanging out with your colleagues a few times a week, playing sports is a great way to get out and enjoy the weather. Have a field nearby? Try setting up some slow-pitch softball games. Or see if you can get a basketball hoop for the office so you and a few co-workers can shoot some hoops at lunch.
7. Join A Professional Group
Bigstock
During the summer, professional networking groups often have fun events like harbor cruises, pub crawls, and outdoor mixers. Find a professional group in your area and make networking fun this summer.
8. Have An Office BBQ
Bigstock
Get your grill on! Talk to your boss about setting up an office BBQ. Ask everyone to contribute their favorite dish, side, or drink. Fire up the grill and relax! Hey, it's summer after all.
9. Wake Up Early
Bigstock
Yes, yes, I know...waking up early is an incredibly painful and unbearable experience for some of us, but waking up even an hour earlier has its benefits—especially in the summer. Go for a morning run, putter around in the garden, or watch the sunrise with a loved one. Talk about starting the day off right!
10. Strategically Use Your Time Off
Bigstock
Strategically use your vacation days around holidays. This way, you can make a potentially long weekend longer without having to use too much of your precious vacation time. Half days are also pretty awesome. It's amazing how much you can do with four extra hours! If you want an early weekend but don't want to burn up your vacation days too quickly, try taking a half day on a Friday instead of using a full day off.
11. Bike To Work
Bigstock
If you're one of the lucky few who live within walking or biking distance of work, take advantage of it! Not only will you get plenty of fresh air, but you'll also save money on gas, which is always a plus!
There are plenty of easy ways to enjoy summer when you work a full-time job. So this summer, try out a few of these ideas and make the most of the sunshine and warm weather—while they're still around!
Need more help with your career?
Become a member to learn how to UNLEASH your true potential to get what you want from work!