Alkar Human Resources

A Simple Process for Tracking Accomplishments

Looking for a New Year’s resolution? Develop an accomplishment-tracking habit. Potential employers want to know what you’ve achieved – and this process makes it easy for you to shine, highlight your wins…and get hired!

Should I Use AI to Find a Job?

Used appropriately, AI can give you an edge when competing for a job. But used incorrectly, irresponsibly or exclusively, AI will TANK your chances. Find straight talk and practical ideas here.

Career Climb: Nurturing Strategic Workplace Relationships

Want to make connections that will help you level up in your career? Don't have a work bestie? Naturally introverted? Don't worry; we got you!

😬 Stop Asking These YIKES Questions in Interviews

You may be the most qualified candidate, but if you're asking questions like these…oof. Use these smarter alternatives to cringey questions – and crush that interview!

$#!@?!

This is one way to grab a hiring manager's attention (but definitely not the best). With 83% of HR professionals still considering cover letters important to hiring decisions, make sure your cover letter stands out – in a good way.

Creating a Killer Resume in 2024: A Jobseeker's FAQ

In this guide, we answer your biggest questions, helping you translate your skills and experience into a powerful tool to land that interview.

Hired!--June 2024

Think the system is rigged against you? The truth is, the job search isn’t always fair. Here’s what can happen – and how a staffing recruiter can help level the playing field.

How to Sound Like a Hero in Your Next Interview

Move over STAR; meet SHER - a modern, powerful format for answering interview questions that highlights your capacity for self-awareness, coachability and growth.

Staying Power: How To Build Career Longevity

Use these practical strategies to build a dynamic, upward career path that grows alongside you.

AI Is Flooding the Job Market With Applications. Here’s What To Do About It

AI makes it easier to apply for jobs en masse. It's increasing your competition – making it harder to stand out. Here’s how to rise above the application torrent and get noticed by hiring managers.

Throwing Flags: Interview Mistakes That Could Cost You the Job

On the job hunt? Make sure you’re not tanking your chances with these missteps during the interview phase.

Seal the Deal: Turn That Successful Interview into a Job Offer

Redefine the waiting game and seal the deal – with the help of a staffing recruiter.

Turn That Assignment Into a Job Offer

Looking for a full-time, direct hire job in the new year? A temporary or contract assignment is a great place to start.

Future-Proof Your Career: Own Your Upskilling in 2024

With work changing more rapidly than ever, improving your skills is more important than ever.

Embrace Your Inner Superhero: Unleash Your Career Potential With a Staffing Sidekick

The right staffing recruiter can be the Robin to your Batman...

Your Dream Job: Land It With a Strong Personal Brand

No matter what type of role you're seeking, you need to market yourself and your job expertise to recruiters. Here’s how to build an unmistakable personal brand that positions you as a standout candidate and instantly says, “Yep, I’m the one you need to hire!”

From Hanger to Hired: Dress for Success to Land the Job

Is that interview outfit smart or schlumpy? Is it right for the employer’s workplace culture and the role? Learn what to wear – and what NOT to wear – to make the best impression…and get hired!

Beyond the Job Description: Finding Your Ideal Employer Fit 

This step-by-step guide explains how to choose the best employer for your career growth and long-term satisfaction.

Using AI to Craft a Resume: Is It Cheating?

Hey, we all want to put our "best foot forward" when applying for a job. But is it ethical (and legal) to have a chatbot write your resume or cover letter?

Do You Have These Digital Skills Today's Employers Require?  

Whether you work in a warehouse or production facility, in an office building or from home, these are the digital skills today’s employers are looking for.

Get Unstuck: 5 Secrets to Moving Up

Why do some people stay stuck in their careers – while others seem to advance effortlessly?

Do You Really Need a Cover Letter? Really??

Even if a cover letter isn’t a mandatory part of a job application, new research shows why including one is a smart move (but only if you want to land an interview, that is)!

You Can Do This: The Best Ways to Learn New Job Skills

Thanks to the pandemic and “digital transformation,” 58% of today’s workforce needs new skills to get their jobs done. Hoooooo, doggie. Don’t panic; prepare! Here’s how to learn the skills you need (and ultimately, find a great job)!

What Is Polywork - and Is It Right for You?

Whether it’s out of desire or necessity, many people are choosing the flexibility, freedom, and variety of polywork.

Telling Tales: Using Storytelling to Land the Job You Want

Use these storytelling principles to get noticed, make yourself a more memorable candidate, and get hired!

Ace Your Performance Review: 2022 Style

The modern performance review has changed. Here's the best way to survive this annual ritual!

Must-Do Job Hunting Homework!

Being prepared before your next interview is crucial. Do your homework, and you stand the best chance of finding a role you love!

Choices, Choices: A Guide to Making Great Decisions for Your Work Life

Making job choices is tough – but it doesn’t have to be. With the right approach, you can ask smarter questions and make better decisions for your career today – and set yourself up for success in the future.

Who would you choose as a job reference?

Providing great references can make or break your chances of getting a job offer. Find out whom you should choose – and how to stack the deck in your favor.

WOW Your Interviewer With These Tips!

An interviewer gauges your confidence, capability, professionalism and more based on nonverbal communication. Use these tips to make a great impression -- and get that job.

5 Tips for Taking Charge of Your Career

The working world has changed -- and so should your strategies for career growth. To remain prepared for what comes next, you must be the boss of your professional development.

Swiffer Your Job Search: How to Spring Clean Your Social Profiles

The job market may be hot, but 79% of employers have still rejected a candidate because of something they found on social media. Here's how to spruce up your online presence -- and get the job you really want.

These tips can improve your job (and job search!)

What's the "right" amount of eye contact in a job interview? What's "shared attention"? And when should you look at your webcam during a video interview? Here's how to make a great impression by getting eye contact right in your next interview.

Get Your Job Search Back on Track in 2022!

Are you gearing up to find your place in the workforce again? Awesome! We can help.

Modern Job Search Tactics That Work!

Monster, Indeed, and CareerBuilder have plenty of jobs, but they’re not the only source. Use these techniques to uncover amazing work opportunities without the big job boards.

Ready to get back into networking?

In-person skills a little rusty? You're not alone. While getting back to the office can feel liberating, it can also feel a little intimidating.

We made this to boost your career success!

The 5 Pillars of Career Success

You will probably need to answer these questions...

Find the answers to the NEW most common interview questions!

You have a lot to brag about!

Here's how to project confidence (not cockiness) in an interview - and WOW your interviewer!

Get Noticed. Get the Interview. Get Hired!

Here's how to retool your resume, so it stands out. We'll also show you how to position yourself as an ideal candidate. With these tips, you'll land more interviews and eventually receive more offers.

We thought these interview tips might help!

Who's Asking? Adjusting Your Interview Approach.

Beat Your Job Search Blues!

Has an unproductive job search battered your confidence and motivation? Don't take it lying down!

There Are New Rules to Know...

In this issue:

The New Rules of Workplace Success: A Digital Etiquette Guide

This just might land you the job!

Whether you are an entry-level candidate or a seasoned professional, interviewing remotely or in-person, we will show you how to shine -- and land a great new job in the New Year.

Get ready to ace your next interview!

Whether you are an entry-level candidate or a seasoned professional, interviewing remotely or in-person, we will show you how to shine -- and land a great new job in the New Year.

Countdown to a great job!

In this issue:

-Countdown to a great job in 2021
-10 Things Your Boss Isn't Telling You...
-Resolution: Lose your lazy

Adapt your resume for a remote world

In this issue: -Highlighting Virtual Work Skills on Your Resume -Doing Hard Things – Even When You're Not Feeling It -6 Ideas for Virtual Holiday Celebrations

Are you ready to take the next step?

In this issue: -Back on Track: Reignite Your Career Growth

How to ace your next video interview

In this issue: -How to ace your next video interview -The Feels: How to Manage Your Emotions at Work -Managing Your Money: Pandemic Personal Finance Tips

Get hired in the post-pandemic world

In this issue: -Your Guide to Getting Hired in the Post-Pandemic Workplace

Laid Off? Get Your Groove Back

In this issue: -Laid Off? Get Your Groove Back -The Productivity Zone: Get Into It -The Sunny Side of the Street: Four Ways to Rewire Your Brain for Positivity

Get a job--get ahead!

In this issue: -I Need a Job Today! -Happiness Hacks: Bring More Joy to Your Job – and Get Ahead -Want to Build a Comfortable Retirement?

Time to start making moves!

In this issue: -All the Right (Career) Moves -Warding off Energy Vampires at Work -Be Kind to Yourself – and Still Get Stuff Done

The 5 people you need to know!

In this issue: -Career VIPs: The 5 People Who Can Fast Track Your Career Growth

Is your resume costing you jobs?

In this issue: -Do This, Not That: Skills, Buzzwords and Your 2020 Resume -You're Capable of More Than You Know -Who Needs Sleep?

Do you feel phony?

In this issue:

-Get Past Hiring Gatekeepers

-Is Feeling Fake Causing Your Career to Flounder?

-Unlock the Power of Positive Intent

Master the Modern Job Search

In this issue: -Master the Modern Social Job Search -The Sky's the Limit! Steps for Landing That Promotion -Less "Presents", More "Presence"

On the Job Hunt?

In this issue: -On the Job Hunt? Try Temptation Bundling -Giving Thanks Can Boost Your Career -Makeover Your Morning Commute

Find your ideal job!

In this issue: -What's the Best Way to Find Your Ideal Job? -How to Take Control of Your Career Destiny -Cheap, Easy and Work-Appropriate: 16 Halloween Costume Ideas

Are you indispensable?

Whether you're aiming for a promotion, a raise or just want to increase your job security, here's how to become your team's go-to employee.

Please don't do this!

In this issue: -The Facepalm-Free Interview -Getting Ahead Starts IN Your Head -Conquering "Time Scarcity"

Is your resume obsolete?

In this issue: -Have Social Networks Killed the Resume? -Career Growth Tips for the Workplace Wallflower -IRS Refund Burning a Hole in Your Pocket?

Start planning now!

Don't want to be a remote worker on Mars? Here's what you need to know to stay employable, earn what you're worth, and build a rewarding, future-proof career on planet Earth.

Who do you know?

In this issue: -It's Who You Know: Network Like a Pro -To Accelerate Your Career Growth, Ask for THIS -Developing Self-Awareness

Want to Be Taken Seriously?

Tattoos and piercings: Seems like everyone has them these days, but could they knock you out of contention for the job you want? Find the advice you need here. Also. you take your career seriously. So naturally, you want your managers, peers and clients to perceive you as professional and worthy of their esteem, right? Make sure you're not engaging in these self-sabotaging behaviors.

Let's Talk Money

Feel like job fairs are a waste of time -- or just hate talking to strangers? Here's how to ace your next job fair and land your dream job!

Create a career roadmap for success

Feeling stalled on the side of the career highway while others zoom past you flaunting raises, promotions and amazing new jobs? Here's how to plot a clear course for your career -- and get on the fast track to success.

Is your resume out of date?

They're outdated. Cliché. And a general waste of space. If you really want to get hired, remove these things from your resume ASAP.

Choose wisely!

The rhyme is fine for choosing team members on the playground - but definitely not a smart approach for managing multiple job offers. Here's how to handle the situation professionally - and make the best choice for your career.

Do this now!

I'll work out...tomorrow. I'll start reading that career growth book...right after I check Instagram. Sound familiar? If you're prone to procrastination, here are four actions you can take to get the ball rolling on any endeavor.

Do you have the right soft skills to get hired?

They may be called "soft," but make no mistake: Regardless of your industry or job function, soft skills are critical to getting hired -- and succeeding on the job. Which do you need for your career, and how can you develop them? Get the lowdown here.

Are you screaming "Don't hire me!"?

You wouldn't actually scream this at an employer, but could the things you do and say during your job search be sending this message? If you want to get hired, avoid these common faux pas.

Land an Interview Today!

The problem could be your resume. Job-search expert Martin Yate shares practical tips for creating a job-targeted resume that gets you on a recruiter's radar. And gets you the interview.

You said that?

They're generic. Confusing. Utterly meaningless. And you should never, ever use them when describing yourself to a potential employer.

Are you being your best?

No matter what you’re trying to achieve in your career -- landing a promotion, finding a better opportunity, earning more money -- success starts with doing an amazing job in your current position. Here’s how to be a dream employee (temp or direct!) -- and get ahead.

Get the salary you want!

Sure, you could just blurt out your 2017 earnings or exclaim: "It's none of your business!" But if you really want the job -- and to get paid what you're worth -- here's how to field interview questions about salary.

Are you on the market?

Made a resolution to get a job (or a better one) this year? Here are 12 ways you can build your skills, grow your network and land an amazing opportunity this year. Best of all? They don't cost a dime.

Could Bad Credit Cost You the Job?

Being out of work can take a toll on your finances. Will that employer pull the offer when they see you've missed a few payments -- or are you worrying over nothing? Also, we share five signs your employer truly values you -- and five signs they don't.

"Let's get started!"

Your new job is filled with possibilities, challenges and growth potential. And during your early days, all eyes are on you. Here's how to shine -- and get ahead, faster.

Please don't wear this

Details, details. They matter on the job -- and when you're interviewing for one, too! Avoid these outfit mistakes and appearance oversights so you're polished, confident and ready to nail your job interview.

How to get more job offers

Candidates who do these things always land the offer. Who the heck are they, and more importantly, how can you become one?

You made a great impression, Reader

Let the other guys wring their hands and trip over their words. With these surefire tips, you'll make an amazing first impression on your interviewer!

Find your dream job

Career Bliss: Stability. Potential. Happiness. Great Pay. Is that too much to ask for in a career? We don’t think so! These are the industries and positions to seek out if you really do want it all.

Need an interview?

Tired of applying to dozens of jobs with zero response? Career expert Debra Wheatman shares her insider’s tips on accessing the “back door” to land more interviews.

The key to your next promotion

Every job search has its quirks, highs and lows; for most, it's nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. But if something you experience leaves you scratching your head (or questioning your sanity), here's how to decide if it's normal -- or real cause for alarm. Plus, the one transferable skill to make you infinitely more promotable.

How to Get AMAZING LinkedIn Recommendations

Pack away the layers. Ditch those dated pieces. And revamp your work wardrobe this spring! Here's how. Plus, aiming for a raise, promotion or even a new job? Let your LinkedIn profile do the "heavy lifting" for you.

How To Get What You Want At Work

Want to be taken more seriously at work? Gunning for a raise or promotion? This eBook is packed with practical ways to increase and leverage your influence -- and get ahead.

How to avoid "oversharing"

Wondering why you didn't get that call back for a second interview? Maybe you "overshared." Here's how to strike the right balance when it comes to divulging personal information in your next interview. And, we all have some sense of dissatisfaction with ourselves. Here's how to channel that discontent productively -- and use it as motivation to achieve more.

How to evaluate every job offer

You just landed a great offer and you're really excited… well, kind of, anyway. Should you take it? Counter? Walk away? Here's how to make the smart choice for your future.

Not every job is on Monster, CareerBuilder and Indeed

Monster, CareerBuilder and Indeed are flooded with jobs, but they're not the only game in town. Use these techniques to uncover amazing work opportunities -- including ones you won't find on those big job boards. Also, pushing yourself outside your comfort zone is a difficult, but necessary, step in growing your career. Here's how to stretch yourself and reach new heights in 2017.

Definitive Guide to Job Search Communication

Buzzwords in cover letters? Emojis in follow-up emails? YIKES! Learn the "rules of engagement" for communicating with potential employers -- and land the job you want.

Want salary information that's, ACTUALLY USEFUL?

Disappointed, confused or angry that you were passed over for a promotion? That's perfectly natural, but you need to let it go -- and do these things instead. Plus, want salary information that's, um, ACTUALLY USEFUL? Start here.

Is that what you are going to wear?

Headed to an interview? Angling for a promotion? The fashion rules for today's modern office have changed. Here's how successful 9-to-5-ers dress to the nines. And, you hear it all the time in career advice articles, but what does "being professional" look like in action? Leadership expert Kevin Eikenberry breaks it down.

Ever been fired?

Been Fired? Use this step-by-step process to find a new (better) job. Fast! Plus, the graduation caps have been thrown, picked up and packed away. Now what?!? The actions you take early in your career determine whether you become a leader or a follower; use these five lessons to make sure your proverbial "scenery" changes.

Get out of your own way!

When it comes to your career, are you your own worst enemy? Get out of your own way – and get ahead at work – with these fresh ideas. Plus, red flags to look for from a new employer.

10 Skills You Need Now!

They may not be "rocket science," but they ARE essential. Learn the fundamental job skills every recruiter looks for, straight from HR expert Sharlyn Lauby. And, how to use your work style to create a positive, professional image -- and get ahead.

What Instagram trick can you use on your resume?

Sometimes it's all about how things look. When you're ready to find a permanent job, use these "filters" to present your temping experiences in the best possible light. Plus, 12 quick ways to eliminate the drama-rama.

Ready to move on to bigger and better things?

If the conversation dies when you're networking or interviewing, so do your job prospects. Avoid these "conversation killers" -- and start more meaningful, memorable dialog with these "ice breakers." And, how you can move on from a boring, mediocre job.

Are you "on fleek"? (we're not even sure what that means)

In 2016, what's the best way to land an entry-level job? A blue collar job? A high-paying job that doesn't require a four-year degree? Find out in this month's issue of Hired. Plus, if your career (or any other aspect of your life) is feeling "out of whack," use this four-step method to get back on track.

Nail your next interview -- and get hired!

Tired of coming in second? Getting stumped by "zinger" questions? Letting your lack of confidence ruin your performance? We've got your back. Get ready to nail your next interview -- and get hired! And how to get that promotion you deserve!

Get the position you really want!

Want to search less -- and uncover better job opportunities? Stop spamming the Internet! Use these ideas to focus your efforts -- and get the position you really want. Plus, here are eight ways to build stronger relationships at work.

"Late AGAIN?!?" How to never be late for work.

Are you setting yourself up for failure, before you ever even land an interview? Avoid these common mental job hunt mistakes that could be stifling your search. Plus, how to never be late to work again!

Crazy job hunting tactics...that actually worked

In this issue of Hired! we feature some bizarre--yet effective--job hunting tactics that paid off big time for candidates. And how to turn a career setback into a lesson learned -- and get ahead in your field.

Need help finding a job?

How can an employment agency help you find a job -- or move ahead in your career? Let us count the ways (we have one for every finger and toe!). Plus, when you find your dream job, here's how to bridge the "experience gap" and convince a hiring manager that you're the best person for the job.

The Phone Screen: Fail it or Nail it?

Want to come across as cocky, rude and generally unprepared for your next phone screen? Of course you don't! So make sure you read this month's newsletter. Also, what if you caught wind of someone talking behind your back? Here's how to address things directly and professionally -- so you come out on top.

Stop playing the field!

Tired of Playing the Field? Here's how to find the right opportunity -- by choosing the right employment agency for you. Plus, how to set yourself up for a great day, every day, with these prep-ahead breakfast options.

When's the last time you said "I can't do that"? - Tips for improving your confidence

Large employer or small? Laid-back culture or high-energy environment? Where will you thrive? Learn how to make the best choice for your personality and career goals in this month's featured article. We'll also share some tips on how to have more confidence in your career and how to have a great "staycation" with your family.

Is that job right for you?

In this issue:

-You Got the Job Offer! Should You Take It?

-Hate Getting Spammed?

-I'm No Picasso!

Land that interview

In this issue;

-$#!@?!

-Hard Work or Talent -- Which Gets You Ahead?

-Ugh -- Coffee Breath!

-It May Be Called "Small Talk"

Got lemons?

In this issue:

-Shake it Off (your resume, that is)

-Thrive at Work -- Even When You're Handed Lemons!

-Sing the Right Tune in Your Interview

How to heat up your job search

In this issue:

-Ignite Your Job Search: Connect, Share and Get Hired

-Don't Just Survive Your First Week. Kill it!

-Feeling a Little Off?

Don't ever say this!

In this issue:

-3 Things to Never Say in an Interview (and 1 you must!)

-Head Over Heels

-Stop Procrastinating -- Starting Today!

Develop Tomorrow's Job Skills, Today

In this issue:

-Want to Get Hired? Register with a Staffing Agency.

-Develop Tomorrow's Job Skills, Today

-Made a New Year's Resolution? Here's how to keep it.

Make Yourself a Job Magnet

In this issue:

-Make Yourself a Job Magnet

-How to Read Your Boss's Mind

-Your Best New Year's Resolution? Stop Wasting Your Time

11 ways to address your employment gap...and get hired

In this issue:

-Bridging the Gap (your employment gap, that is)

-Job Hopping the RIGHT Way is Good for Your Career

-Live Better: Simplify the Holidays

-Interview Tip of the Month: Interview Flop? Here's How to Get Past it

Still looking for a job?

In this issue:

-Are You Your Own Worst Enemy?

-Get Ahead eBook: Ace Your Performance Review

-Live Better: Stop Caring About These 5 Things

How to create a job offer

In this issue:

-Turn an Assignment into a Job Offer

-Get Ahead: Make Yourself Indispensable

-The 25-Hour Day!

Get hired!

In this issue:

-Don't Hate the Gatekeepers

-Blog Link of the Month: Map Your Career Path

-Interviewing Tip of the Month: Nail Your Second Interview

Deserve a raise? Here's how you can get one!

In this issue:

Deserve a Raise? Here's How to Get One

Hiring Managers Don't Decide Who Gets Hired, Candidates Do

Sell Your Transferrable Skills in the Interview

Is your body speaking louder than you?

In this issue:

-Feature Article: Body Talk

-The Simple Skill That Will Boost Your Influence at the Office

-Interviewing Tip of the Month

-Fun Facts

Want a better job?

In this issue:

-Level Up: How to land a better job. Earn a promotion. And get ahead in your career.

-Blog Link of the Month: Take The Job Offer Or Wait For Something Better?

-How to answer: "Have you ever been fired?"

Don't Let Your Resume Cost You a Job

In this issue:

Where'd You Hear That?!?

Are You Sabotaging Your Career Success?

Interviewing Tip of the Month: Confidence is Key

Stop complaining, start achieving

In this issue:

-Quit Your Complaining

-Blog Link of the Month: Are You a Contender or a Pretender in Your Job Search?

-Interviewing Tip of the Month: What's Your Style?

Making any of these stupid job search mistakes?

In this issue:

-Dumb and Dumber: Making any of these stupid job search mistakes?

-How to Write a Stand-Out Cover Letter

-Interviewing Tip of the Month: State the Obvious!

Hot in 2014--The Best Jobs, Skills and Industries

Looking to move your career forward? On the job hunt? Find out where the greatest demand for talent is--and the skills you need to land your next great opportunity.

Focus on YOU not them!

When you're looking for a job, it's only natural to compare yourself to successful friends or other, seemingly more talented job seekers. Rage against this counterproductive behavior--and focus on what YOU have to offer the employer.

Why an active "night life" can benefit your career

In this issue:

-Working 9 to 5 5 to 9

-6 Innovative Ways to Really Get Noticed by a Hiring Manager

-Interviewing Tip of the Month: Create a Killer "Elevator Pitch"

Job Search Tactics Stuck in the Stone Age?

Today's social media provide amazing ways to uncover job opportunities, build your network and get noticed by hiring managers--but only if you use them correctly! Bring your job search efforts into the 21st century (please!) with these tips.

How is business at YOU, Inc.?

Just like top businesses, your career needs a flexible, yet long-term plan for success. Setting that direction is up to you. Whether you're currently employed or on the job hunt, use these steps to develop a personal strategic plan that moves your career forward.

The A to Z Resume Resource

What's the best resume format? How can I make my resume stand out from the crowd? What about video and infographic resumes? This eBook covers everything you need to know to prepare an exceptional resume that puts you on a recruiter's short list. New Deliverable

How to Overcome Shyness at Work

Whether you've been on the job for years, or are just starting in a new position, shyness can severely undermine your professional success. Use these ideas to come out of your shell, achieve more and even use your natural personality to your advantage!

Welcome to Hired! from Alkar Human Resources

Egosurfing (or self-googling) may sound a bit vain, but it's a must for today's job seekers. This quick article explains why and how to manage your online reputation.

Resources

Newsletter Archive