Social Media & The Employer Test | Bellingham HR Consultant

Increasingly employers are using social media venues to screen their employees and potential hires.  They use it as a means to not only verify information the employee/hiring candidate shared, but also to ensure they aren't been misrepresented on the internet.  Some of the key things employees and potential employees should keep in mind when posting to social media venues is:

• What are your privacy settings? Can anyone see what you've posted?  If you have your privacy settings on "High," it limits the potential for an employer to have a peek at what you've posted.  But, it typically doesn't limit those who are on your friends list.  So review your settings, and make sure you are comfortable with who sees what.
• Who do you "friend?" Is it only personal friends and family? Co-workers? Your boss?  As mentioned earlier, even if your privacy settings limit outsiders from having a peek, it doesn't limit insiders.  Those you are friends with can easily access your information.  So, if your co-workers and boss are on your lists it means they can access your information.  It also means your employer has another way of accessing you.
• What photographs have you posted?  Do you really think a potential employer is going to still over you that job when you've got photos of you attached to a beer bong posted all over Facebook? Think again.  Filter! Filter! Filter!  While some photos might be funny to friends and family, it could cause your employer and/or a potential employer to think twice.
• Status updates... I've seen employees who have called in sick at work, post status updates to their social media accounts that definitely did not support their "I have the flu" excuse for not reporting to the job. 

While the internet and social media have opened up a lot of opportunities for people - making this world of ours a lot smaller and people more accessible - it has also created a fishbowl effect.  What was once considered private is no longer off-limits - even for your employer.  So be cautious and pay attention.

ThinkBiz Conference | Bellingham HR Consultant

Time is running out to register for the ThinkBiz conference, held at Whatcom Community College in Bellingham, Washington.  The conferences offers a range of sessions for professionals, and it is all at an affordable $69.  If you haven't already done so, head over to the ThinkBiz page today and register you (and a friend!).

Taking The Word "But" Out of it... | Bellingham HR Consultant

If you want to open yourself up to more opportunities, take the word "but" out of your vocabulary.  I have noticed that even the most versed individual often uses (in fact, over uses) the word "but."   This word really does become an excuse and often times results in shutting people out and/or down.  For example, "I see where you are coming from, but..."

Individuals hearing the word "but" typically know they are about to hear something they do not like.  For at least a couple days, take the word "but" out of your vocabulary and see what sort of opportunities open up for you.  You would be surprised.

The Art of Saying "Thank You" | Bellingham HR Consultant

Many take saying "Thank You" for granted, especially Management and Leadership. Here are some tips when it comes to telling your employees "Thank You."  I'm not talking "Thank You" as a form of politeness or courtesy.  I am talking "Thank You" for doing a good job... The ol' pat-on-the-back.

• Don't say it too frequently; otherwise, it begins to sound disingenuous.  However, not saying it enough can lead to resentment and disloyalty.  Say it when an employee has done big projects or special projects.  Making a big deal out of their daily responsibilities leads to that frequency that can get you into trouble.
• Make it personal.  Instead of making a big show of it, send a personal note.  A handwritten note sent to the employee's home address is a formal yet intimate way of letting the employee know they did something good.  It will not only be appreciated by the employee, but you'll soon discover they are talking about the note (maybe even showing the note) to their colleagues in a positive context.
• When handing out those kudos, do it in a way that the employee appreciates.  Some employees are motivated by public displays, while other employees prefer a quiet show of appreciation.  Find out which your employees are motivated by and follow through with the individual.  If you try the blanket approach to those kudos, you'll find the employees who thrive in the spotlight will wilt and second guess themselves if they receive a quiet "atta boy!" while those who prefer the quiet approach will feel embarrassed, if not humiliated, by public displays.
• When you're on the receiving end of a "Thank you," make sure you pass that sentiment out to those who work for you.  What sets a successful, effective Manager/Leader off from the pack is their willingness to share the glory and take all the blame.

By following these simple guidelines to express your appreciation, you'll go a long way in not only endearing yourself to your staff, but also increasing the likelihood of repeat performances.