When Going Above and Beyond is a Bad Thing
Finishing all your work in a timely manner and helping out when necessary, but when does being productive cross the line into being overworked? While some IT recruiters might do the bare minimum at their IT staffing company, there are those who go above and beyond what is considered the norm—and this is not always best. Setting unrealistic expectations and overworking yourself to meet unattainable goals sets you up to be burned out. Technical recruiters often confuse stress with burnout, but while some stress is beneficial, burnout is detrimental to one’s overall health. Here are some tips to maintain your work load without sacrificing your wellbeing.
Leaving Work in the IT recruiting Office. IT recruiters need to be readily available to his clients, but remember you have needs that you must meet outside of work obligations, too. Bringing technical recruiting work home with you everyday prevents you from spending time with your family and friends and, most importantly, takes away time from relaxing and recovering. Exercise to burn off stress and maintain a healthy, clear mind. Work will not disappear; it will be waiting for your return in the morning, so give it a rest!
Working Overtime
Everyone experiences times when they must work more than expected, but do not make this a habit. Working overtime is not always best because your quality of work diminishes as your interest level drops. If you are paid hourly, the money might be enticing, but align your priorities first. If you find you cannot complete your tasks in an appropriate time period, it is your responsibility to speak up that you have too much of a work load.
Asking for Help and Saying No
Some employees carry too much pride to ask for help when they need it. Work continues to pile up and the individual tries to rush through his projects, leaving room for errors. Take a step back and evaluate what you can and cannot handle. If someone addresses you for help, be honest when you cannot take on additional work. People appreciate the truth more than hearing yes and being let down.
Remember that doing your best does not mean working all hours of the day and night. It has been proven that taking periodic breaks can improve your work performance. No amount of money is worth sacrificing your health and relationships!
When Business Casual Is Too Casual
If your IT staffing office looks like a pajama party, you know work is probably not being completed to its full potential
Imagine the nightmare of walking into an interview for an IT job and no one acknowledges you. Desk dwellers are plugged into their headsets and shift their eyes toward you only to immediately avert any interest from your direction. Technical recruiters stroll toward you five minutes past your appointment, barefoot wearing a grease stained t-shirt and basketball shorts. You extend a hand which he uncomfortably shakes and leads you to a corner office which could be mistaken for a closet. You thought you were going to an IT recruiting firm…are you in the right place?
Offices are becoming increasingly casual, but what crosses the line from casual to sloppy? Some argue that their quality of work should not be based upon their style. When poor hygiene and style habits begin to affect others, it is time to raise the bar on what is acceptable. Here are some guidelines so you do not ruin the luxury of a relaxed office for other IT recruiters Boston.
Your Outfit– Just Because It Zips Doesn’t Mean You Should Wear It
Tight clothes are not flattering in the work place and are often distracting. On the other hand, loose and baggy clothes give off the slob vibe. Wear clothes that fit properly and give you a professional demeanor. You will feel better about yourself and chances are your quality of work will improve, too. A client will most likely choose the neat and trim IT recruiter over his messy, unkempt counterpart… and the same goes with an IT staffing representative choosing his candidates, too!
Maintaining Good Hygiene—What’s That Smell?
No one wants to be the person in the office that people want to avoid due to poor hygiene. Prevent the label by taking care of yourself and grooming on a daily basis. Maintain good health and be considerate of others. What might be considered normal and comfortable for you could put others over the edge.
The Mute Office
Some prefer to keep to themselves during their work day which is perfectly acceptable. What is not acceptable is keeping your headphones in all day and ignoring fellow IT recruiters and guests. Make it a point to communicate with others in your office. Building relationships now will help when you need to collaborate on projects later. It also does not hurt to have a few friends in the office!
The Social Office
On the flip side, candidates that talk about their personal lives or choose to meet up outside of office hours with their IT headhunter and coworkers should remember how their actions and words will affect their work. Just because you may not be in the office does not mean others will not find out things you say or do. Ensuring conversations with your colleagues in and out of the office are appropriate will prevent you from having to explain yourself later. Keep in mind that some associates do not want to be concerned with others’ personal issues.
Dropping in at All Hours
Some companies are flexible with their hours, allowing employees to drop in at all hours of the morning given that they complete their shift. Be considerate of your clients and coworkers in your IT recruiting firm by creating a fixed schedule. Set up a weekly meeting with your IT recruiter so you have a definite time to address issues or concerns. A routine will help you to stay organized and on top of your work. If you unexpectedly decide to come in at a different time, or are late, notify your supervisor so there are no questions asked. Even if it is not required, the notice will be appreciated.
No one enjoys working in a strict atmosphere with all rules and no fun. Keep a positive attitude and be respectful. If you are not used to working in stricter office conditions, give it time and soon it was become second nature!